East Michigan News

Today, Chairman John Moolenaar and Ranking Member Raja Krishnamoorthi of the House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party expressed serious concerns over reports that Thai authorities plan to deport 48 Uyghur refugees to China.

The lawmakers stated, "We are deeply concerned about Thai authorities’ reported plans to forcibly deport 48 Uyghur refugees to the People’s Republic of China, when third countries are willing to assume custody." They highlighted that such actions would breach international human rights norms, which Thailand is obligated to uphold under international law.

Moolenaar and Krishnamoorthi emphasized the risks these individuals face if returned to China. They mentioned a "credible risk of imprisonment, torture, or death upon return" due to systematic persecution faced by Uyghurs through "mass internment, forced labor, and other grave abuses."

The joint statement urged Thailand to stop the deportations and allow resettlement in nations offering safety from persecution. The representatives warned that proceeding with the deportations could damage U.S.-Thai relations. They also mentioned potential U.S. measures against those facilitating China's human rights abuses.

"The U.S. remains steadfast in defending Uyghur rights," they asserted. The statement concluded with an appeal for Thailand to fulfill its international obligations and collaborate with the U.S. and other partners for a lawful resolution for these refugees.