In a controversial decision, Thailand has deported at least 40 Uyghurs back to China, despite international pleas from the U.S., the U.N., and human rights organisations against their return due to fears of torture. The secrecy surrounding the deportation has raised concerns, with Thai authorities remaining tight-lipped on the matter, only to be confirmed by China’s state television shortly after the transfers occurred. Notably, there is confusion regarding the exact number of individuals deported as Thailand had been holding 48 Uyghurs.
Initial reports indicated that the men, who are part of China’s oppressed Uyghur population, were transported from Bangkok’s immigration centre early in the morning, with blackened windows shielding the trucks from view. These individuals had sought refuge in Thailand for over a decade, fleeing persecution in their homeland. Human rights activists expressed alarm at the incident, fearing they would face severe repercussions upon their return to China.
U.S. officials expressed profound concern over the deportation, urging Thailand to uphold its legal obligations not to return individuals to countries where they risk being tortured. Meanwhile, Thai opposition lawmakers demanded clarity from the government, questioning the morality of deporting individuals after years of detention. They implored the authorities to find more compassionate solutions instead of risking further human rights violations.
As protests and calls for accountability persisted, the Thai government appeared evasive, with a spokesman stating ignorance about the deportations, and the Prime Minister deferring comment on the situation amidst rising scrutiny. Critics noted that Thailand’s recent adoption of laws to prevent torture should protect these individuals from being sent back into harm’s way, which has only intensified calls for transparency in government actions.
Thailand has deported at least 40 Uyghurs to China, ignoring international warnings against their return due to potential torture. The operation was shrouded in secrecy, leading to governmental evasiveness over the details. Human rights activists and U.S. officials have raised concerns, urging adherence to non-refoulement principles, whilst the Thai government faces mounting pressure for accountability.
The deportation of Uyghurs from Thailand to China, conducted amid considerable international outcry, has spotlighted the urgent issues of human rights and non-refoulement obligations under international law. Activists and lawmakers continue to demand accountability and better protections for those at risk, as the fate of these individuals remains uncertain.
Original Source: www.rfa.org
