The United States has expressed strong condemnation of Thailand's decision to forcibly return at least 40 Uyghurs to China. Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued a statement highlighting concerns over the lack of due process rights for Uyghurs in China, where they have historically faced persecution, forced labor, and torture.
Rubio emphasized that this action by Thailand, a longstanding ally of the United States, could violate international obligations under the UN Convention Against Torture and the International Convention on the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance. He noted that this move contradicts Thailand's tradition of protecting vulnerable populations and its commitment to human rights.
"We urge all governments in countries where Uyghurs seek protection not to forcibly return ethnic Uyghurs to China," stated Rubio.
The statement also criticized China's treatment of Uyghurs and other ethnic and religious minority groups in Xinjiang. "China, under the direction and control of the Chinese Communist Party, has committed genocide and crimes against humanity targeting predominantly Muslim Uyghurs," Rubio said.
The U.S. is calling on Chinese authorities to allow full access for verifying the well-being of returned Uyghurs regularly. Additionally, it urges the Thai Government to ensure continuous verification that Chinese authorities uphold the human rights of these individuals.