Thailand has deported 40 Uyghur asylum seekers back to China, inciting significant backlash from rights groups and U.N. officials who fear for their safety. This action is perceived as a reflection of China’s growing power in the region. Activists warn that the deportees face torture and long-term imprisonment in Xinjiang, underscoring the ongoing crisis faced by the Uyghur community.

On Thursday, Thailand deported 40 Uyghur asylum seekers back to China, prompting significant criticism from United Nations officials and human rights activists. They had cautioned that these individuals could face severe human rights violations, including torture and long-term imprisonment, upon their return. This action, which Thai officials attributed to a request from Beijing, underscores China’s increasing influence in the region, particularly against the backdrop of the United States’ waning partnerships under the Trump administration.

The deportation follows a meeting between Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Chinese President Xi Jinping, where they discussed cooperative projects and enhancing tourism. The United Nations refugee agency and human rights chief Volker Türk condemned the actions, deeming it a violation of international law. Uyghur advocates expressed deep concern for the safety of the deported individuals, fearing dire repercussions.

Tahir Imin, a Uyghur activist residing in the United States, articulated his distress, stating, “I’m deeply saddened, worried and terrified about what’s going to happen to them next. They will get unimaginable punishment. Torture, death and long-term imprisonment is guaranteed.” China has been successful in exerting pressure on other nations to repatriate citizens who have fled persecution.

The deported Uyghurs were detained in Bangkok for over a decade, originally part of a group of more than 300 individuals who fled China in 2014, intending to reach Turkey, where many Uyghurs have settled. Recently, some individuals among the group initiated a hunger strike, fearing imminent deportation to their homeland, Xinjiang, known for its stringent authoritarian measures against the Uyghur population, including mass detentions and strict birth control policies.

In conclusion, Thailand’s recent deportation of 40 Uyghur asylum seekers back to China raises serious concerns regarding human rights violations and international law. This incident highlights China’s expanding influence in the region and the precarious situation faced by persecuted minorities. The international community, including various human rights organizations, continues to voice alarm over the safety of these individuals and the broader implications for asylum seekers worldwide.

Original Source: www.nytimes.com

Related posts:

UN Condemns Thailand’s Deportation of Uyghurs Amid Human Rights Concerns Thailand’s Controversial Deportation of Uyghurs Sparks International Outcry Thailand’s Controversial Deportation of Uyghurs to China Amid Human Rights Concerns Thailand’s Deportation of Uyghurs to China Draws International Condemnation