Civil Diplomacy Approachs Regarding the 48 Uyghurs Facing the Risk of Extradition to China in Thailand

The Vice President of the International Union of East Turkistan Organizations (IUETO), Nurmuhammed Turkistani, and the Secretary-General, Abdureşid Eminhaci, have been closely monitoring the issue of Uyghurs detained in Thailand since January 27. They have carried out diplomatic visits and initiatives concerning their extradition.  

As part of the civil diplomacy approach initiated by the Office of the Sheikhul Islam of Thailand to prevent the extradition of 48 Uyghurs, meetings were held with Thailand's Sheikhul Islam, Arun Boonchom.  

•⁠  ⁠During these meetings, the demands of the entire East Turkistan community were conveyed, along with appreciation for the long-standing support of Thai Muslims for the 48 Uyghur brothers in Thailand. It was emphasized that the risk of extradition would be a crime against humanity, similar to the tragic events of 2015. The responsibility of the global Muslim community regarding this issue was also discussed.  
•⁠  ⁠Throughout the visit, the delegation of the Union engaged with various relevant levels of the Thai government, taking significant steps. A meeting was held with Dr. Suchart, a member of the Thai National Human Rights Commission, to evaluate the situation. Proposals were made for the transfer of the 48 Uyghur Turks to a third country and ensuring that detainees in Thailand receive all their fundamental human rights. Joint approaches on these matters were discussed.  
•⁠  ⁠During our approach in Thailand, the possibility of extradition was removed from the government’s agenda. Additionally, on January 28, the Thai Senate deliberated on the issue and approved a decision against extradition.  
•⁠  ⁠The 48 Uyghur Turks, who began a hunger strike on January 10, decided to end their protest on its 20th day following these developments. The hunger strike emerged as a crucial step in securing a legitimate and effective civil diplomacy approach for rescuing the Uyghurs detained in Thailand.  
•⁠  ⁠Approaches have also been initiated to address the physical and psychological well-being of the detained Uyghurs. As an immediate measure, emergency food and clothing kits were prepared and delivered.  

As IUETO, during our visit, we conducted simultaneous approaches with various groups related to the issue. We also engaged with our regional and international partners to evaluate responsibilities both during and after the process.  

We extend our gratitude to all our partners, intermediary institutions, individuals, the Office of the Sheikhul Islam, relevant Thai authorities, and the public for their support in this matter.  

Following our work in Thailand, our approach continues in Indonesia, where we are conducting civil diplomacy visits and initiatives with local officials.