The World Uyghur Congress condemns Thailand for deporting 40 Uyghur refugees, who now face threats to their safety and human rights abuses in China. Despite being detained since 2014, the refugees were denied legal and humanitarian protections. The WUC has called for international action to hold Thailand accountable and protect these vulnerable individuals.
The World Uyghur Congress (WUC) has unequivocally condemned the forced repatriation of 40 Uyghur refugees by Thailand, asserting that this act endangers the individuals’ lives, exposing them to potential persecution and human rights abuses by the Chinese government. The WUC highlighted that these refugees had previously fled from oppression in East Turkistan and had been in detention in Thailand since 2014, where they had hoped for protection under international law.
Reports indicate that Thai Member of Parliament Romadon Panjor shared a video showing a large detention vehicle at the Suan Phlu immigration detention center. Subsequently, these detainees were transported to an airport for deportation to China, though Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra did not confirm the occurrence of the deportation during inquiries. The WUC criticized Thailand for compromising its international reputation and for failing to uphold human rights standards.
Furthermore, the WUC’s President emphasized the dire situation faced by the deported individuals, commenting on Thailand’s responsibility and the UNHCR’s inadequate response to the crisis. The report remarked on past instances where Uyghurs deported to China ended up facing severe consequences, including disappearances and abuse, raising alarm regarding the ongoing plight of these refugees.
The WUC urged Thailand to abandon its deportation practices, warning that such actions risk not only the lives of those deported but also Thailand’s standing in the international community. They called upon the Thai government to provide a clear statement regarding the deported Uyghurs and asserted that action must be taken by the UN and EU to hold Thailand accountable for this violation of international law.
In summary, the deportation of Uyghur refugees from Thailand raises significant concerns regarding human rights and international law. The actions of the Thai government have been condemned by the WUC, which calls for urgent international intervention. The future of the deported individuals remains uncertain, and the WUC emphasizes the necessity for accountability from both Thailand and international bodies.
Original Source: www.tribuneindia.com
