UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk condemned Thailand’s deportation of 40 Uyghurs to China, describing it as a grave violation of international law. He stressed the need for Thailand to respect non-refoulement principles and protect those in need of asylum. The U.S. has also criticized the deportation, calling for the protection of the Uyghurs’ rights.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, has criticized the deportation of 40 Uyghur individuals from Thailand to China, calling it a “clear violation of international human rights laws and standards.” He expressed significant regret regarding their forcible return and emphasized that it breaches the principle of non-refoulement, which prohibits sending individuals back to countries where they may face torture or ill-treatment.
Turk referenced the importance of Article 3 of the Convention against Torture and international obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, as well as Thailand’s domestic laws. He urged Thai authorities to fulfill their duties under international law and protect individuals in need of international protection. “It is deeply regrettable that they have been forcibly returned,” Turk stated.
He further called on the Chinese government to reveal the current status of the deported individuals and ensure their treatment aligns with international human rights standards. Turk highlighted the adverse conditions faced by the Uyghurs during their prolonged detention in Thailand, where five had died, and eight are believed to remain detained.
The Commissioner reiterated the need for the Thai government to halt any further deportations, insisting that the remaining Uyghurs, many of whom may be refugees or asylum-seekers, receive adequate protection in accordance with international law. The situation has drawn condemnation from the United States, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressing alarm over Thailand’s actions and calling for the humane treatment of the deported individuals.
The deportation of the Uyghurs from Thailand has raised significant human rights concerns, prompting condemnation from both the United Nations and the United States. Volker Turk emphasized the obligation of countries to protect vulnerable individuals and adhere to international law. The situation demands accountability and transparency from both Thai and Chinese authorities.
Original Source: www.tribuneindia.com
