The European Union has joined the United States in condemning Thailand’s forced deportation of more than 100 ethnic Uighurs to China, where they could face harsh treatment and a lack of due process.
An EU statement Saturday called the deportation a violation of core principles of international humanitarian law.
The office of the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees said it was shocked by the forced deportations, saying it had been given assurances by Thai officials that the individuals would be treated in accordance with international legal standards.
Thailand sent the more than 100 Uighurs, including women and children back to China despite the willingness of Turkey to accept them.
Friday, Thailand closed its embassy in Ankara and consulate in Istanbul after protests against the deportations.