Thailand deported dozens of Uyghurs to China despite warnings from human rights groups about potential persecution. This action has drawn condemnation from the UN, emphasizing concerns over human rights violations in Xinjiang, where China allegedly detains around one million individuals. The deportation raises significant questions about Thailand’s adherence to international law and human rights obligations.

On Thursday, Thailand proceeded with the deportation of dozens of Uyghurs to China, despite significant concerns voiced by human rights organizations regarding potential persecution upon their return. This action has led to immediate condemnation from the United Nations, amid ongoing accusations that Beijing has committed human rights violations against Uyghurs in Xinjiang, where approximately one million individuals are reportedly detained.

The Thai national police chief, Kitrat Phanphet, confirmed that 40 Uyghurs were deported, following a request from the Chinese government. He stated that the Chinese authorities assured the Thai government of their commitment to safeguard the deportees’ welfare and provided guarantees about their accommodation and safety upon return, claiming adherence to international laws during the deportation process.

Thailand had previously faced international backlash for the forced deportation of 109 Uyghurs in 2015. Rights advocates informed that a group of 48 Uyghurs had been detained in Thailand for over a decade without access to legal support or family visits, living in fear of deportation back to China, where they are at risk of facing severe consequences.

In response to the deportations, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees expressed deep regret, emphasizing that the action violated the principle of non-refoulement and Thailand’s obligations under international law. Experts from the UN had previously conveyed concerns suggesting that the deportees would endure irreparable harm if returned to China, leading to heightened scrutiny of Thailand’s actions.

China’s public security ministry described the deported individuals as “illegal migrants”. They emphasized the deportations as part of a cooperative effort between China and Thailand to combat cross-border crime, while downplaying human rights concerns raised by international observers. Chinese authorities have repeatedly denied allegations of abuses in Xinjiang, asserting their policies have effectively mitigated extremism and supported development in the region.

Human Rights Watch condemned the deportation as a gross violation of international laws, warning that the individuals face an increased risk of torture and indefinite imprisonment in China. The situation for the deported Uyghurs raises serious questions about Thailand’s adherence to international obligations concerning human rights. Those deported have been subject to mistreatment and remain at risk of severe human rights violations in their homeland.

Thailand’s recent deportation of Uyghurs back to China has sparked significant condemnation from human rights groups and the United Nations, raising concerns about the treatment and safety of these individuals upon their return. Despite assurances from the Chinese government regarding their protection, the action highlights ongoing issues related to the human rights situation in Xinjiang and the obligations of nations to uphold international standards. The legitimacy and implications of the deportation illustrate the delicate balance between international relations and humanitarian responsibilities.

Original Source: www.rfi.fr

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