In a significant humanitarian controversy, the United States condemned Thailand’s recent deportation of over 40 Uyghur men to China, fearing they may face severe persecution. The U.S. State Department stated that it and other nations had made numerous offers to resettle these individuals safely, who had fled the oppressive regime in Xinjiang. Despite this, the men were covertly repatriated to China from a Bangkok detention centre last week.
Thailand’s Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs, Russ Jalichandra, claimed there were no substantial proposals for their resettlement. He suggested that any third country willing to accept the Uyghurs should negotiate with China beforehand, implying that Thailand’s actions were influenced by fears of repercussions from Beijing if they were not returned.
The State Department highlighted that Thailand’s actions violated the UN Convention Against Torture, stressing other nations need not seek permission from China when offering asylum to those at risk of persecution. Their statement underscored that safeguarding individuals from return to likely torture is non-negotiable, regardless of pressure from the country they fled.
Historically, Thailand has faced backlash for its treatment of Uyghurs. In 2014, over 200 Uyghurs were detained, and similar deportations had already sparked international outcry when some were sent back to China. The latest deportation was carried out under the cover of night, and there remain concerns about the welfare of eight individuals still in Thailand, whose futures are uncertain.
Human Rights Watch and various NGOs condemned the deportation, warning that these individuals risk severe abuse and indefinite detention in China. UN human rights chief Volker Türk echoed these sentiments, criticizing Thailand’s disregard for international human rights standards, urging them to protect those remaining and demanding clarity from China regarding their treatment of the repatriated Uyghurs.
The U.S. condemned Thailand’s deportation of over 40 Uyghur men to China, fearing for their safety due to potential torture. The U.S. had repeatedly offered resettlement options to Thailand, which the Thai Vice Minister dismissed. Human Rights organizations have highlighted the dangers faced by these individuals, asserting a breach of international law by Thailand.
The deportation of Uyghurs from Thailand to China raises significant concerns about human rights and the responsibilities of nations towards asylum seekers. The U.S. and other countries have expressed their dismay, underscoring the dangers the repatriated men now face in China. As the situation unfolds, Thailand’s approach to international human rights obligations will be under scrutiny, especially for the remaining Uyghurs in their custody.
Original Source: time.com
