European Parliament Addresses Human Rights Violations in Thailand, Sudan, and Azerbaijan

The European Parliament adopted resolutions condemning human rights violations in Thailand, Sudan, and Azerbaijan. Key points include objections to the lese-majesty law in Thailand, calls for immediate humanitarian aid and end to violence in Sudan, and urgent demands for fair trials and release of Armenian hostages in Azerbaijan. The resolutions advocate for reforms and accountability, highlighting the need for international human rights adherence.

On Thursday, the European Parliament enacted resolutions addressing human rights violations in Thailand, Sudan, and Azerbaijan. The Parliament specifically condemned the enforcement of the lese-majesty law in Thailand and the deportation of Uyghur refugees to China, urging the Thai government to cease such actions and to implement reforms that align with international standards.

The European Parliament called for an end to the deportation of Uyghur refugees, requesting that Thailand provide the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) with unrestricted access to all detained asylum seekers. Additionally, MEPs urged significant reforms, including the release of political prisoners and compliance with core International Labour Organisation (ILO) conventions. The resolution, which received 482 votes in favor, asserted that extradition treaties with China should be suspended until fundamental rights of deported Uyghurs are guaranteed.

Concerning Sudan, MEPs demanded an immediate cessation of hostilities, adherence to the Jeddah Declaration, and unhindered humanitarian access for civilians suffering from the ongoing crisis. They strongly condemned sexual violence, particularly child rape, perpetrated by the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces. With a resolution receiving 575 votes in favor, MEPs advocated for sanctions against significant figures responsible for these crimes, heightened humanitarian aid, and protective measures for vulnerable populations, including women and children.

In relation to Azerbaijan, the Parliament condemned the unlawful detention and unjust trials of Armenian hostages, including notable political figures. MEPs emphasized the necessity of fair trials and medical access for detainees, alongside a demand for the reopening of UN and International Committee of the Red Cross offices. With 523 votes favoring the resolution, MEPs insisted on sanctions against officials implicated in human rights violations and insisted that future EU agreements with Azerbaijan be contingent on improvements in human rights practices and a fair resolution with Armenia.

The European Parliament’s resolutions spotlight significant human rights violations in Thailand, Sudan, and Azerbaijan, calling for urgent reforms and accountability. The recommendations include halting the deportations of Uyghur refugees in Thailand, ensuring humanitarian access in Sudan, and addressing the unlawful detentions in Azerbaijan. The resolutions represent a coordinated effort to enhance human rights protections and impose sanctions on those responsible for abuses. A stronger commitment to international human rights standards is essential in these regions.

Original Source: www.pubaffairsbruxelles.eu