The European Parliament condemned Thailand for the deportation of 40 Uyghurs to China, citing violations of international law and severe risks of human rights abuses. The resolution emphasized the need for transparency regarding the returnees’ treatment and urged Thailand to adhere to democratic principles. The situation of Uyghurs in China and Thailand calls for urgent international attention.
On March 14, the European Parliament adopted a resolution condemning Thailand’s decision to deport 40 Uyghurs back to China, citing violations of international law. The resolution expressed grave concerns regarding the potential risks these deported individuals face, including arbitrary detention, torture, and severe human rights abuses upon their return. Notably, other countries had previously offered asylum to these refugees, highlighting the urgency of their plight.
The 40 Uyghurs had been detained in Bangkok’s Immigration Detention Center for over a decade after fleeing China in 2014. Accounts from Uyghurs indicate that those deported may suffer significant repercussions, with evidence suggesting a pattern of retaliation against escapees. A recent confirmation from local police regarding two Uyghurs who faced prison sentences upon their return underscores this concern, as they had abandoned their escape plans to avoid endangering their lives.
In a statement from the Chinese Embassy in Bangkok, a spokesperson mentioned that the deported Uyghurs would receive a period of “vocational skills training” after reuniting with their families. This claim is contentious, as the Chinese government is known to detain nearly 2 million Uyghurs in camps in Xinjiang under the guise of vocational education, with reports detailing forced labor conditions.
Although the EU’s resolution did not explicitly address the conditions of the camps, it urged China to ensure the rights of the returnees and maintain transparency regarding their treatment. Furthermore, the resolution recognized Thailand’s status as a significant EU partner, encouraging the country to uphold democratic principles and adhere to international human rights standards.
The European Parliament’s resolution highlights the serious implications of Thailand’s deportation of Uyghurs back to China, emphasizing the potential risks of human rights abuses these individuals may face. The calls for Thailand to strengthen its adherence to democratic ideals and human rights standards amplify the international community’s concerns regarding the treatment of refugees. This situation underscores the importance of protective measures for vulnerable populations globally.
Original Source: www.aninews.in
