World Uyghur Congress Condemns Thailand’s Deportation of Uyghur Refugees

The World Uyghur Congress condemned Thailand’s deportation of 40 Uyghur refugees back to China, highlighting the dangers they now face, including persecution and torture. The WUC criticized the UNHCR for inadequate protection and called for international action to hold Thailand accountable, citing violations of the non-refoulement principle and the jeopardy of human rights of those deported.

The World Uyghur Congress (WUC) has strongly condemned the deportation of 40 Uyghur refugees from Thailand back to China, which occurred on February 27. The WUC asserts that this action significantly endangers these individuals, exposing them to potential persecution, torture, and severe human rights violations at the hands of the Chinese authorities. The refugees had fled oppression in East Turkistan and had been detained in Thailand since 2014.

Romadon Panjor, a member of the Thai Parliament, shared footage showing a large detention vehicle arriving at the Suan Phlu immigration detention center near Bangkok, where the refugees had been held. Subsequently, reports emerged that these detainees were transported to an airport and forcibly returned to China. When asked about the deportations, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra did not confirm the reports, thereby leaving questions surrounding the incident unresolved.

The WUC highlights that this deportation undermines Thailand’s credibility on the international stage and constitutes a serious violation of human rights. The organization criticized the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) for failing to safeguard these vulnerable individuals despite numerous international pleas for assistance. According to WUC President, this latest development poses grave uncertainties for the deported individuals who may now face harrowing consequences.

Further, the deportation contradicts international laws, particularly the non-refoulement principle, which prohibits sending individuals back to countries where they face life-threatening dangers. Past deportations of Uyghurs to China have resulted in severe mistreatment, indefinite detention, or even disappearance. The WUC had previously cautioned the Thai government against such actions, asserting that they jeopardize the lives of the individuals involved and tarnish Thailand’s commitment to human rights.

The WUC calls on the United Nations, the European Union, and other concerned nations to implement urgent diplomatic and legal measures to hold Thailand accountable for this violation. They urge immediate action to protect the rights and safety of the affected Uyghurs and restore international trust in Thailand’s human rights commitments.

In conclusion, the World Uyghur Congress has called attention to Thailand’s controversial deportation of Uyghur refugees, emphasizing the risks these individuals now face upon their return to China. This incident is not only a violation of human rights but also potentially jeopardizes Thailand’s international reputation. The WUC urges global entities to take action to ensure accountability and protection for the remaining Uyghurs in Thailand.

Original Source: www.aninews.in