A group from the Uyghur American Association protested in front of the Thai Embassy in the US, condemning the Thai government’s deportation of 40 Uyghurs from a Bangkok detention center to China last Thursday.
They delivered a black wreath to the embassy as a symbol of mourning and protest, stating that they refused to stay silent in the face of grave injustice.
During the peaceful protest held on February 28 (local time), their placards read, “Thailand is complicit in Uyghur genocide” and “Thailand, you failed as a sovereign state in upholding your obligation to protect human lives.”
One placard specifically referred to the Thai premier, stating, “Paetongtarn Shinawatra, you have Uyghurs’ blood on your hands.”
In a statement issued on February 27, the day the Uyghurs were deported to China, the association said it strongly condemns the Thai government’s actions.
“This shocking and inhumane act directly violates international law and Thailand’s obligations under the principle of non-refoulement, which prohibits the forced return of individuals to a country where they face persecution, torture, or worse.”
However, the Chinese Embassy in Bangkok has posted photos on Facebook showing some of the deported Uyghurs arriving at their homes in Xinjiang. The post stated that all 40 returnees had already reunited with their families.
The embassy also stated that Thais are welcome to visit Xinjiang to meet with the returnees and experience its peaceful and beautiful surroundings.
