Lawmakers Urge UN to Protect Uyghurs Detained in Thailand
In Bangkok, over 50 lawmakers from various countries have called on the United Nations to ensure the safety of 48 Uyghurs detained in Thailand for more than a decade. These individuals, part of a larger group fleeing persecution in China’s Xinjiang region, have been held at Thailand’s Immigration Detention Centre since 2014. While some Uyghurs were resettled in Turkey, others were deported back to China, and the remaining are detained as illegal immigrants.
Human rights organizations have raised alarms about the harsh conditions and potential risks if the Uyghurs are returned to China. Thailand, not a signatory to the 1951 UN Refugee Convention, does not offer refugee protection. A letter from the Interparliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC) to the UNHCR highlighted the life-threatening conditions at the detention center, where five detainees have died.
IPAC urged the UN to intervene, noting that some countries might offer resettlement. The UNHCR expressed deep concern and is engaging with Thai authorities to resolve the situation, though details remain confidential.
Doubts Revealed
Lawmakers -: Lawmakers are people who make or change laws. They are usually part of the government and work to create rules that help run a country or state.
UN -: The UN, or United Nations, is an international organization made up of countries from all over the world. It works to promote peace, security, and cooperation among nations.
Uyghurs -: Uyghurs are a group of people who mostly live in the Xinjiang region of China. They have their own unique culture, language, and religion, which is different from the majority of people in China.
Thailand -: Thailand is a country in Southeast Asia. It is known for its beautiful beaches, temples, and rich culture.
Persecution -: Persecution means treating someone very badly or unfairly, often because of their race, religion, or beliefs. It can include things like being hurt, put in jail, or forced to leave their home.
Xinjiang -: Xinjiang is a region in the far west of China. It is home to many different ethnic groups, including the Uyghurs.
Immigration Detention Centre -: An Immigration Detention Centre is a place where people who are not allowed to enter or stay in a country are kept. They are usually held there until a decision is made about their situation.
Human rights groups -: Human rights groups are organizations that work to protect people’s basic rights and freedoms. They often help people who are being treated unfairly or are in danger.
Deported -: Deported means being forced to leave a country and return to your own country. This usually happens when someone is in a country without permission.
UNHCR -: UNHCR stands for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. It is a part of the UN that helps people who have had to leave their homes because of war or persecution.
IPAC -: IPAC stands for the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China. It is a group of lawmakers from different countries who work together to address issues related to China.
