Two Uyghur Muslim Men in Thailand Face Possible Deportation to China Amid Human Rights Concerns Country: Thailand / China Category: Muslim Communities | Asia | Human Rights Publication Date: November 8, 2026 Two Uyghur Muslim men detained in Thailand are facing the possibility of deportation to China, raising renewed concerns among international human rights organisations about their safety and freedom. The men, who have spent more than 12 years in Thai detention, were transferred to Bangkok's Immigration Detention Centre on October 21, 2026, following a royal pardon that released them from prison. Personal Letters Reveal Fear of Return In a report published on November 7, The Guardian revealed that letters from the detainees had been shared with human rights groups. One of the men reportedly expressed deep fear about being returned to China, saying he wanted to go anywhere else rather than face deportation. The letter was shared by his partner with a Thai rights organisation. Human Rights Organisations Urge Protection Human Rights Watch has urged Thailand to prevent the men's forced return and allow them to resettle in a safe third country. Amnesty International has also called for an immediate halt to any deportation plans, warning of possible torture, arbitrary detention and enforced disappearance if the men are returned. The organisations have also raised concerns about access to legal representation and independent monitoring. Background: A Long-Running Uyghur Detention Case The two men were part of a larger group of Uyghurs detained by Thai authorities in 2014 after fleeing China. In February 2025, Thailand deported 40 Uyghur men to China despite international objections. Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International have since raised concerns about the lack of independently verified information regarding the whereabouts and wellbeing of those deported. Thailand and China's Positions China's Foreign Ministry has defended cooperation with Thailand on cross-border crime, stating that it complies with domestic and international law. Thailand's Foreign Ministry declined to comment to The Guardian on the latest case. Thailand's National Security Council chief has previously said the men have outstanding Chinese arrest warrants and that legal procedures would apply to any extradition request. What Happens Next? The two men's immediate future remains uncertain. No confirmed deportation decision has been announced in the cited reports. Human rights organisations are urging Thailand to respect the principle of non-refoulement, which prohibits returning individuals to places where they face a real risk of torture or other serious human rights violations. Islam Global News – Asia Human Rights Desk Editorial Note: The risk of deportation is not a confirmed deportation order. Claims about potential mistreatment are attributed to the detainees and human rights organisations. China's official position is included for context.