Thailand Deports 40 Uyghurs to China Amid UN Condemnation

Thailand has deported at least 40 Uyghurs to China's Xinjiang region, prompting widespread condemnation from human rights organizations and the United Nations. Activists have warned that the deportees face severe risks of torture and arbitrary detention upon their return to China, where the government has been accused of grave human rights abuses against the Uyghur population. Thai officials, including Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, confirmed the deportation, asserting that China assured the safety of the returnees. The U.N. human rights chief described the action as a violation of international law, emphasizing the principle of non-refoulement, which prohibits returning individuals to places where they face serious harm. This deportation follows a history of similar actions by Thailand, raising concerns about its commitment to human rights and the treatment of refugees. The situation reflects the ongoing pressure on countries to comply with China's demands regarding Uyghur refugees.