Malaysia’s Rohingya returns draw forced deportation allegations
Kuala Lumpur says returns to Myanmar are voluntary and coordinated with its government, while human rights groups warn of legal and safety risks.
Malaysia is sending thousands of Rohingya refugees back to Myanmar, according to Al Jazeera. The returns have prompted accusations of forced deportation, which the Malaysian government denies.
Kuala Lumpur says the process is voluntary and coordinated with Myanmar’s government. The available report does not explain how voluntariness is assessed or how many people have returned.
Human rights groups say the returns violate international law and could expose refugees to prosecution or torture. The report does not name the groups or provide independent verification of the claims.
More than 100,000 Rohingya sought refuge in Malaysia nearly a decade ago after fleeing persecution and war in Myanmar, Al Jazeera reported. The current returns are taking place while Myanmar is still affected by violence, the report said.
