UNHCR condemns Thailand’s deportation of around 40 Uighurs after ten years in detention, asserting that it violates international law principles of non-refoulement. The agency has repeatedly sought access to these individuals and called for alternatives to their detention. UNHCR urges Thailand to cease the forced return of asylum seekers, reinforcing the importance of their protection.
The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) has expressed profound regret over the deportation of approximately 40 Uighurs by Thai authorities, after these individuals spent more than a decade in detention centers in Thailand. There are reports indicating that this specific group faced imminent deportation, prompting UNHCR to request access to them and assurances that they would not be sent back, given their stated fear of repatriation. However, access was denied, and the Thai authorities claimed that no decision on deportation had been made, creating confusion around the situation.
Ruvendrini Menikdiwela, UNHCR’s Assistant High Commissioner for Protection, noted that this action contravenes the vital principle of non-refoulement as well as Thailand’s commitments under international law. The right to seek asylum and the principle of non-refoulement are established in Thailand’s Prevention and Suppression of Torture and Enforced Disappearance Act, the ASEAN Human Rights Declaration, and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. UNHCR has been raising concerns over the detention conditions of this group since 2014, advocating for improved humanitarian conditions and alternatives to detention.
UNHCR has formally called upon the Royal Thai Government to halt the forcible return of individuals from Thailand, emphasizing the necessity for the protection of those seeking asylum. Such measures ensure that individuals are not returned to situations where they may face danger or persecution.
In conclusion, UNHCR strongly condemns the forced return of Uighurs from Thailand, viewing this as a violation of international obligations. The agency has asserted the importance of adhering to the principles of non-refoulement and individual safety. UNHCR continues to urge Thai authorities to take responsible actions to protect vulnerable individuals and improve their humanitarian conditions.
Original Source: www.unhcr.ca
