European Parliament, US Condemn Thai Officials Over Uyghur Deportations

The European Parliament has condemned Thailand for its lese-majeste law and the deportation of Uyghurs to China, highlighting violations of international law, Banghok Post reported.

The resolution criticizes the deportation of at least 40 Uyghur refugees, who face risks of detention and torture in China, despite offers from other countries for resettlement. It calls for Thailand to halt further forced returns, grant the UNHCR access to detained Uyghur asylum seekers, and ratify the 1951 Refugee Convention.

In a related move, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced sanctions against Thai officials involved in the deportations. The sanctions aim to deter Thailand and other nations from similar actions, emphasizing the US commitment to countering China’s pressure on governments to forcibly return Uyghurs. Rubio stated that visa restrictions would be imposed on those responsible for the deportations.

Thailand defended its actions as compliant with laws and human rights obligations, but analysts suggest the government may be sensitive to international criticism, especially in light of potential US trade tariffs. The Campaign for Uyghurs praised the US sanctions, reinforcing the message that those enabling human rights abuses will face consequences. Both the EU and US actions reflect growing concern over the treatment of Uyghurs and the implications for human rights in Thailand.