The World Uyghur Congress condemned Thailand’s deportation of 40 Uyghur refugees, expressing concern for their safety as they return to China, where they face persecution. The deportation violates international law, specifically the non-refoulement principle. The WUC called for the international community to take action against Thailand and protect the rights of the refugees.
On February 27, 2023, the World Uyghur Congress (WUC) condemned Thailand’s deportation of 40 Uyghur refugees back to China, voicing strong opposition to what they described as an unlawful act. The WUC expressed concern for the safety of these individuals, as they are likely to face persecution and serious human rights violations upon their return due to the actions of the Chinese government.
The incident came to light when Thai MP Romadon Panjor shared a video on social media showing a large detention vehicle at the Suan Phlu immigration detention center where the refugees were held. These detainees were reportedly transported to an airport and sent back to China. Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra did not confirm the deportation when queried about the matter.
The WUC criticized Thailand for compromising its international reputation and called for accountability in response to this human rights breach. The organization’s president noted that the future of the deported individuals is uncertain, raising alarms over their potential fate once returned to China. The refugees, who fled China’s oppressive regime, had been detained in Thailand since 2014.
Despite previous assurances to the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) that these individuals would not be deported, Thailand returned 109 fellow detainees to China earlier. The WUC report highlighted the ongoing denial of legal representation and humanitarian aid to the remaining Uyghur refugees, emphasizing that international pleas for their protection have been largely ignored.
The WUC described Thailand’s actions as a violation of international law, particularly against the non-refoulement principle, which prohibits sending individuals back to places where their safety is at risk. Historical deportations of Uyghurs have resulted in severe consequences, including vanishings, arbitrary detention, and human rights abuses.
In light of this situation, the WUC urged Thailand’s government to refrain from further deportations, emphasizing the risks to the lives of those affected. They also called upon international bodies and governments to take immediate action to hold Thailand accountable and ensure the protection of the refugees involved.
The World Uyghur Congress has called Thailand’s deportation of Uyghur refugees a serious violation of human rights and international law. The organization expressed deep concern for the safety of those sent back to China, where they face persecution. They urge international agencies and countries to act swiftly to hold Thailand accountable and provide protection to these vulnerable individuals.
Original Source: www.tribuneindia.com
