Thailand Faces EU Condemnation: Uyghur Deportations, Lese Majeste Law
On Thursday, March 14, 2025, the European Parliament issued a strong condemnation of Thailand’s human rights record, specifically citing the deportation of Uyghur refugees to China and the continued enforcement of its lese-majesté law. This resolution reflects growing international concern over Thailand’s human rights practices and its relationship with China.
The resolution highlights the perilous situation of Uyghur refugees in Thailand. The Parliament stated that Thai authorities deported at least 40 Uyghurs despite the risk of persecution, including arbitrary detention and torture, in China. This action, the resolution argues, violates international law, especially considering that other countries offered these individuals safe haven. Further, the Parliament noted reports that at least five Uyghurs, including minors, died in Thai immigration detention centers due to inhumane conditions during their decade-long confinement.
Beyond the Uyghur deportations, the Parliament criticized Thailand’s lese-majesté law (Section 112 of the Criminal Code). This law, which criminalizes insults against the monarchy, has been widely condemned for suppressing freedom of expression and silencing political dissent. The Parliament argues that the law contradicts Thailand’s obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).
The resolution demands action from both the Thai and Chinese governments. The Parliament called on Thailand to immediately halt the forced return of refugees, asylum seekers, and political dissidents to countries where they face danger. It also urged Thailand to grant the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) unrestricted access to detained Uyghur asylum seekers, to operate a transparent asylum system compliant with international standards, and to ratify the 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol. Furthermore, it called for amnesty for all Members of Parliament and activists prosecuted or imprisoned under the lese-majesté law and other repressive legislation.
The Parliament demanded that China respect the fundamental rights of the deported Uyghurs, provide information on their whereabouts, and allow UNHCR access. It also called for the release of any detained Uyghurs.
The resolution encourages Thailand, a significant EU partner, to strengthen its democratic institutions and align its practices with international human rights standards. It calls for the amendment or repeal of Section 112 and other restrictive laws to guarantee freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and political participation.
Recognizing the leverage of trade relations, the Parliament urged the European Commission to utilize ongoing free trade area (FTA) negotiations to pressure Thailand to reform its repressive laws, release political prisoners, and halt Uyghur deportations. It also encouraged member states to suspend extradition treaties with China.
Finally, the resolution instructs its President to forward the document to the Council, the Commission, and the Thai and Chinese authorities, signifying a commitment to monitor the situation and hold both governments accountable. The European Parliament’s strong stance highlights the increasing international scrutiny of Thailand’s human rights record and the potential consequences for its international relations and trade agreements. This pressure could significantly impact Thailand’s domestic policies and its treatment of refugees and political dissidents.
