The United States has announced a new visa restriction policy targeting foreign government officials involved in the forced return of Uyghurs and other ethnic or religious groups to China. This move aims to address concerns over human rights violations, including torture and enforced disappearances faced by these groups upon their return.
The policy, effective immediately, will initially target current and former officials from Thailand's government. These individuals are implicated in the forced repatriation of 40 Uyghurs on February 27. The U.S. government is taking this step as part of its commitment to counter China's pressure on governments worldwide to repatriate these vulnerable groups.
The announcement highlights China's ongoing acts of genocide and crimes against humanity against the Uyghur population. It urges global governments not to participate in such forced returns.
This policy falls under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, empowering the Department of State to impose visa restrictions on responsible or complicit foreign officials. Family members of these individuals may also face similar restrictions.