Thailand has repatriated 40 Uyghur Muslims back to China, stirring international concern over the possible imprisonment or torture awaiting them. Human rights organisations have raised alarms about the ongoing crackdown in Xinjiang, despite an easing of tensions since the late 2010s. Reports indicate that Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities face unprecedented surveillance and arbitrary detentions in the region.
Rushan Abbas, chair of the World Uyghur Congress, expressed disappointment, stating, “Once again, the world has failed the Uyghurs.” He highlighted the grim implications of Thailand’s decision, which was reportedly compelled by the Chinese government, asserting that it sends a warning to other nations regarding the safety of Uyghurs seeking asylum.
The repatriated men were part of a larger group who had fled Xinjiang in search of refuge, and many were initially detained in Thailand trying to escape restrictions by crossing into neighbouring countries. Activists had argued that returning these men to China would violate international law, a position consistently rejected by the Chinese authorities, who insist on their right to return.
The U.S. House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party warned that this deportation could cause significant damage to U.S.-Thai relations and hinted at potential sanctions against those involved. Phil Robertson from the Asia Human Rights and Labor Advocates stressed that Thailand might take advantage of the current turmoil in U.S. foreign policy.
Logistics surrounding the deportation were meticulously executed, with reports of vehicles with blacked-out windows transporting the Uyghurs under cover. A chartered flight departed Bangkok early Thursday, confirming the sensitive nature of the operation.
China confirmed that the repatriation adhered to laws of both nations, claiming the Uyghurs had left illegally and were victims of deception by criminal groups. Questions remain regarding the fate of eight additional Uyghurs still held in Thailand amid increased cooperation between Chinese and Thai authorities to combat cybercrimes and illegal activities.
Thailand repatriated 40 Uyghur Muslims to China despite fears of imprisonment or torture, amidst a crackdown in Xinjiang. Human rights groups condemned the move, stating it violated international law. The U.S. has warned that this could damage relations with Thailand, considering sanctions against those involved. The operation was conducted discreetly and highlights the increasing influence of China over Thailand’s policies regarding Uyghur asylum seekers.
The repatriation of the 40 Uyghurs raises serious human rights concerns, with implications that could affect international relations, particularly between the U.S. and Thailand. Activists’ calls to protect these individuals from the harsh realities of life in Xinjiang have been met with resistance from Thai authorities under China’s pressure. The clandestine nature of their return highlights a troubling trend of governance yielding to coercive diplomatic forces. As global scrutiny intensifies on human rights practices under Chinese governance, Thailand’s actions send a worrying signal to other nations regarding their responsibilities toward asylum seekers.
Original Source: www.washingtonpost.com
