On Thursday, China seemingly acknowledged the deportation of dozens of Uyghurs from Thailand, a move amidst serious concerns from human rights organisations about the risks these individuals face upon returning. Activists assert that Beijing is involved in severe human rights abuses in Xinjiang, where around a million Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities are allegedly detained. However, Chinese officials deny these claims, asserting that the repatriation aligns with international law.
Faced with mounting pressure, rights advocates warned that a group of 48 Uyghurs, who had sought refuge in Thailand after fleeing China, were set for deportation. The Thai public security ministry outlined that on Thursday, 40 “illegal migrants” were returned to China, yet declined to confirm whether these individuals included Uyghurs. Officials described the repatriation as part of broader cooperation between Thailand and China against cross-border crime.
Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra mentioned that any deportation actions would adhere to legal and human rights principles but had not delved into specifics about the Uyghur cases. Authorities in Thailand have repeatedly refuted claims that they plan to send the Uyghurs back to China. Meanwhile, Chinese public security officials have alleged the deportees were tricked by criminal organisations into leaving the country.
Human Rights Watch expressed alarm, stating that Thailand’s actions violate both domestic and international laws. They argue that the deported men are at high risk of severe mistreatment, including torture and long-term imprisonment. The group awaiting deportation has been under de facto detention for over a decade, with limited rights to legal assistance and family communication.
Recent indications from the United Nations suggested that Bangkok was urged not to send the Uyghurs back, citing the threat of “irreparable harm”. Detention facilities allegedly prepared to transfer them, with reports of a Chinese aircraft departing Bangkok shortly thereafter. Accusations against China regarding the detention of more than a million Uyghurs in Xinjiang continue to mount, with international bodies labelling these actions as possible “crimes against humanity” and “genocide.”
In counteraction, China dismissed these allegations as politically motivated falsehoods, asserting that measures in Xinjiang have effectively tackled extremism and promoted growth. On Thursday, China’s foreign ministry condemned the external interference relating to the Xinjiang crisis, refuting claims that aim to disrupt lawful enforcement collaboration.
China has confirmed the deportation of Uyghurs from Thailand, igniting fears of persecution upon their return. Despite warnings from human rights groups regarding severe abuses in Xinjiang, China asserts these deportations are lawful. Thai authorities maintain that actions must align with legal principles and human rights, yet the situation raises alarm over the potential for human rights violations.
The deportation of Uyghurs from Thailand raises significant human rights concerns, as activists warn of possible persecution upon their return to China. Human rights groups argue that this action violates international laws and puts individuals at risk of severe abuses. Both countries are facing scrutiny for their treatment of these refugees, with calls from the UN to halt deportations and protect the rights of those affected.
Original Source: hongkongfp.com
