EU Condemns Thailand for Deporting 40 Uyghurs to China

The European Parliament has condemned Thailand for the deportation of 40 Uyghur refugees to China, describing the act as a violation of international law. The resolution, passed with overwhelming support, criticizes Thailand's handling of the refugees, who had been detained for over a decade in inhumane conditions and now face severe risks of arbitrary detention and torture upon their return. The Parliament urged the European Commission to pressure Thailand into reforming its restrictive lese-majeste law and releasing political prisoners. Reports indicate that the deportees are likely to encounter punishment in China, as evidenced by previous cases of Uyghurs who returned and were sentenced to long prison terms. Amidst these concerns, the resolution also emphasizes the need for transparency from China regarding the treatment of the deported individuals. The situation underscores ongoing human rights violations and the urgent need for reform in Thailand's legal and immigration policies.