United Nations experts have raised serious concerns about the fate of 40 Uyghur men who were forcibly deported to China by Thai authorities a year ago. The experts highlighted that the men were deported to China without following international law safeguards, exposing them to risks of human rights violations such as enforced disappearance and torture. These men had been detained in Bangkok’s Suan Phlu Immigration Detention Centre for over a decade before their deportation, with no contact with their families or legal representatives.
The experts expressed dismay over the lack of information regarding the current whereabouts and well-being of the deported men. Despite calls from various international bodies and civil society organizations, the forced returns were carried out, disregarding human rights obligations. The experts emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in such cases to prevent further human rights violations.
Credible reports and victim testimonies suggest that Chinese authorities subject detainees’ relatives and local communities to extensive surveillance, creating a climate of fear. Families are often too scared to seek information about their loved ones due to potential reprisals. The experts warned that denying legal access and intimidating families could lead to unchecked human rights abuses, emphasizing the importance of speaking out against such injustices.
The experts urged China to ensure the safety and well-being of the 40 Uyghur returnees by allowing independent monitors to verify their conditions. They called for measures to alleviate the fear and uncertainty faced by families and local communities, emphasizing the need for transparency and respect for human rights in such cases.
