Senator Marco Rubio intends to lobby Thailand to prevent the deportation of 48 Uyghurs to China, where they could face persecution. This action highlights potential influences on U.S.-China relations as Rubio’s confirmation as Secretary of State is awaited. Advocacy groups express deep concerns regarding the detainees’ treatment and international obligations, while Rubio emphasizes the need for diplomatic intervention.
U.S. Senator Marco Rubio announced his commitment to lobby Thailand to prevent the deportation of 48 ethnic Uyghurs held in Thailand to China, where they would likely face persecution. Rubio’s statement highlights the potential influence he may have in shaping U.S.-China relations as the incoming Trump administration prepares to take office. He reinforced this stance during a Senate hearing when asked by Senator Jeff Merkley about the Uyghurs’ fate, confirming he would advocate against their repatriation.
The Uyghurs have been detained in Thailand since 2014 as they sought refuge from Chinese persecution. These detainees have endured poor conditions and have been isolated from legal assistance and healthcare. A recent report revealed the detainees were distressed about the possibility of deportation, leading to a hunger strike in hopes of gaining international support for their cause.
Human rights organizations, including Campaign for Uyghurs, have expressed deep concern that such deportations would contravene Thailand’s obligations under international law. Although not a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention, Thailand faces scrutiny regarding its treatment of refugees, especially following previous deportations that led to human rights violations in China.
Rubio’s comments come in light of reported pressure from China on Thailand to repatriate these Uyghurs. U.S. Representative Chris Smith highlighted the potential repercussions of such actions for Thailand’s international reputation. He emphasized that returning Uyghurs to China would place them at significant risk of persecution in labor camps.
While there are current fears regarding the deportation of the 48 Uyghurs, advocacy groups suggest there may be no immediate danger based on unverified reports from Thai officials. Nevertheless, the World Uyghur Congress has been working through diplomatic channels to ensure the release of these detained individuals, advocating for their rights and pushing for their resettlement in a safe country.
The Uyghurs are an ethnic minority in China’s Xinjiang region, where they have been subjected to severe human rights abuses, including mass internment in camps. Since 2014, 48 Uyghurs have been detained by Thailand as they attempted to escape this persecution, and they have faced deteriorating living conditions in detention. With no legal recourse available, international advocacy is critical to protect their rights and prevent their forced return to China, especially amidst a strained U.S.-China relationship.
Senator Rubio’s commitment to advocate for the Uyghurs’ safety reflects broader concerns regarding human rights in China and the implications of international law. Advocacy groups continue to work tirelessly to secure their release, emphasizing the crucial nature of global support against deportations. The situation in Thailand therefore serves as a critical test of diplomatic relations and humanitarian obligations amidst rising geopolitical tensions.
Original Source: www.benarnews.org
