The Burmese army has launched an offensive against Karen rebels, who have been fighting for autonomy for decades. Thousands of Karen people have fled the government offensive and crossed the border from Myanmar - also known as Burma - into neighbouring Thailand.

Aid organisations estimate that there are already around 100,000 Karen in Thailand, having fled previous military operations. The rebels are calling for international aid for the refugees and are urging the United Nations to put pressure on Myanmar's military junta to start a dialogue.