As China woos the Taliban, Uyghurs in Afghanistan worry for his or her lives

As China woos the Taliban, Uyghurs in Afghanistan fear for their lives

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Tuhan, who is using a pseudonym to protect her identity from the Taliban, is caught between a homeland where Uyghurs are facing increasing repression, and an adopted country where they are considered outsiders.

What worries them most is that they could be deported to China.

Former detainees allege they were subjected to intense political indoctrination, forced labor, torture, and even sexual abuse. China vehemently denies allegations of human rights abuses, insisting the camps are voluntary “vocational training centers” designed to stamp out religious extremism and terrorism.

Tuhan said she fears what will happen to her and her family if they’re forced to return.

“All these past years, life was difficult … But what is happening now is the worst,” she said, referring to the Taliban takeover. “It is just a matter of time before (the Taliban) find out that we are Uyghurs. Our lives are in danger.”

“China refugee”

Tuhan was just 7 years old when she and her parents fled Yarkand, an oasis…

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