Diaspora Hong Kong Groups in Support of Uyghurs, Urging the Thai Authority to Halt Deportation of 48 Uyghur Refugees to China

【Joint Statement】 Diaspora Hong Kong Groups in Support of Uyghurs, Urging the Thai Authority to Halt Deportation of 48 Uyghur Refugees to China

January 21, 2025

To Prime Minister of Thailand, Paetongtarn Shinawatra

We wish to express our deep concern regarding reports that the Thai government may deport 48 Uyghurs — detained for over a decade — to China. We respectfully request that Thai authorities consider allowing these individuals safe passage to a third country where they can be protected from potential persecution and other serious human rights abuses.

Recent public statements from Human Rights Watch highlight the grave risks these Uyghurs could face if returned to China, including enforced disappearance, long-term imprisonment, and torture. A spokesperson for the organization has emphasized: "These Uyghurs have the right not to be returned to a place where they may face torture and persecution. Thailand should fulfill its international human rights obligations."

Zumretay Arkin, Vice President of the World Uyghur Congress, similarly noted: "Uyghurs have the right to seek asylum and protection. They should not be forcibly returned to a place where their lives are in danger due to political pressure. Thailand must respect these fundamental human rights and allow them to relocate to a third country safely."

Under the United Nations Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CAT) and the 1951 Refugee Convention, signatory states commit not to return anyone to a country where they may face torture or persecution. Moreover, Article 14 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights recognizes each person's right to seek asylum from persecution in other countries.

As people of Hong Kong, many of us have experienced firsthand the oppression of arbitrary detention and unjust trials following the enactment of the National Security Law in 2020 and the forced introduction of the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance in 2024 by the Chinese government. We therefore feel a profound responsibility to speak out and stand in solidarity with the Uyghurs, who risk a similar fate if deported to mainland China.

With these principles in mind, we earnestly hope the Thai government will adhere to its international obligations, uphold human rights, and suspend the planned deportations. We encourage Thai authorities to provide these Uyghurs with an avenue to secure refuge in a safe environment, demonstrating compassion and humanitarian leadership.

People from Hong Kong and around the world have long chosen Thailand as a prime travel destination. We are concerned that proceeding with these forcible returns may deter Hong Kong tourists from visiting Thailand and affect the confidence of visitors worldwide. We respectfully request the Thai government to respond promptly and constructively to these concerns, thereby promoting outcomes that benefit all parties involved.

Co-signed by Hong Kong diaspora groups:

Aus-Hong Kong Connex Inc. Australia Hong Kong Link Hong Kong Aid Hong Kong Forum, Los Angeles Hong Kong Outlanders Lady Liberty Hong Kong Southampton Hongkongers New School for Democracy Taiwan Hong Kong Association Victoria HongKongers Association (Australia)

For media inquiries, please contact: Alric Lee contact@ladylibertyhongkong.com