BANGKOK, Thailand – The Thai government has outlined three possible solutions for the 40 Uyghur detainees in its custody, with Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs Russ Jalichandra stating that repatriation to China remains the most practical option. The alternatives include indefinite detention, which would violate human rights laws, or resettlement in a third country, which remains unrealistic as no nation has stepped forward to accept them.
Russ criticized countries that have opposed repatriation without offering concrete solutions, arguing that while international concerns have been raised, no nation has committed to providing resettlement. He noted that major powers and international organizations, including the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), have not recognized the detainees as refugees. Without a viable alternative, Thailand must navigate the issue while safeguarding national interests and international relations.
China has issued an official safety guarantee for the detainees, and Thailand has received diplomatic assurances that their rights will be respected. The government maintains that under international diplomatic norms, such commitments hold weight and must be honored. While concerns remain, officials assert that rejecting China’s formal guarantees would not be justified, as doing so could undermine diplomatic relations and economic stability.
Russ affirmed that his administration continues to seek the best possible outcome within the constraints it faces. While the situation is challenging, authorities stress that decisions must be based on legal obligations and practical realities, rather than pressure from external actors who have not provided tangible assistance. (NNT)
