UNHCR criticized the Royal Thai Government for the forced deportation of 40 Uighurs after over 10 years in detention. The agency highlighted the violation of non-refoulement principles and urged for improvements in the detained group’s humanitarian situation and alternatives to detention. UNHCR calls for an end to forced returns from Thailand.
The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) has condemned the forced deportation of around 40 Uighurs from Thailand, where they had spent over a decade in detention centers. Reports indicated that this group was facing imminent deportation, prompting UNHCR to repeatedly request access and assurances from Thai authorities to protect these individuals, who expressed fear of return, but their requests were denied.
According to Ruvendrini Menikdiwela, UNHCR’s Assistant High Commissioner for Protection, this situation constitutes a violation of the non-refoulement principle and the obligations of the Royal Thai Government under international law. The rights to seek asylum and the principle of non-refoulement are established in Thailand’s Prevention and Suppression of Torture and Enforced Disappearance Act, the ASEAN Human Rights Declaration, and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
UNHCR has voiced concerns regarding the detention of these Uighurs since 2014, calling for the Thai government to enhance their humanitarian conditions, explore alternatives to detention, and find safe resolutions. Menikdiwela urged an end to forced returns from Thailand, emphasizing the humanitarian aspects of the case.
UNHCR’s condemnation of the deportation of Uighurs from Thailand highlights serious concerns regarding international law violations, specifically non-refoulement. The agency’s ongoing advocacy for these detainees demonstrates a commitment to human rights and the need for humane treatment of asylum seekers. It calls for the Royal Thai Government to address these issues responsibly and prioritize the welfare of individuals in their detention facilities.
Original Source: www.unhcr.ca
