Two Uyghur men detained in Thailand since 2014 are seeking protection against being returned to China. Human Rights Watch has urged safe resettlement in another country, citing risks of torture and serious abuse. Thai security officials say any extradition request must go through the courts, where the men would be able to defend themselves.
Two Uyghur men held in Thailand since 2014 are seeking protection from return to China because they fear torture or other abuse. Human Rights Watch (HRW), an international rights organisation, urged safe resettlement in a third country. The men’s lawyers say Thai authorities have already been informed that they do not consent to return.[1], [2]
Thai National Security Council chief Chaipruak Doungprapat said on 4 November that China must submit a formal extradition request and courts would determine the outcome. He said the men could defend themselves and that a ruling in their favour could allow resettlement elsewhere. A source with direct knowledge told the Associated Press that the men repeated their objection at a meeting with Thailand’s National Human Rights Commission.[2]
According to Human Rights Watch, the men were moved from Bangkok Central Prison to the Suan Phlu immigration detention centre in Thailand’s capital on 21 October after royal pardons. They had served most of seven-year sentences connected to an escape attempt in January 2020. The organisation says the UN refugee agency has repeatedly been denied access to assess their refugee status.[1]
The organisation cites Thailand’s non-refoulement obligations, which prohibit forced return to a place carrying a genuine risk of torture or comparable serious abuse. Its appeal follows Thailand’s return of 40 Uyghur men to China in February 2025. HRW says credible continuing monitoring of those men has not been provided.[1]
