Human rights advocates have raised concerns over the fate of the Russian-Belarusian rock band, Bi-2, after they were deported from Thailand to Israel. The band members were detained in Thailand for performing without a permit and faced the risk of persecution if sent back to Russia due to their vocal opposition to Moscow’s war in Ukraine. Thai authorities, in response to international pressure and concerns for the band’s safety, offered them the option to be deported to a different destination.
Bi-2, which was founded in Minsk, Belarus, and gained popularity in Russia, has faced backlash from the Russian government. Last year, lead singer Yegor Bortnick was labeled a “foreign agent” by Russia’s Ministry of Justice after criticizing President Vladimir Putin online. The band’s founders have openly denounced the Putin government and refused to perform at venues displaying support for the war in Ukraine, leading to canceled concerts and their eventual departure from Russia.
The band’s detention in Thailand sparked an international outcry, with human rights advocates warning of the severe persecution they could face in Russia. The Thai National Security Council, chaired by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, took charge of the case and allowed the band to be deported to Israel. Several members of Bi-2 hold dual nationalities, including Israeli and Australian.
Thai officials initially claimed that the band was detained for performing without the correct work permits. However, the band’s concert organizers, VPI Event, stated that all necessary permits were obtained and accused the Russian consulate of pressuring for concert cancellations since December. They also highlighted the “unprecedented pressure” they faced in seeking the band’s release.
Human rights organizations, including Human Rights Watch (HRW), praised Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs for recognizing the importance of upholding human rights principles. Phil Robertson, HRW’s deputy Asia director, emphasized the significance of international pressure and global economic concerns in influencing Thailand’s decision not to send the band back to Russia. Robertson also acknowledged Thailand’s vulnerability to manipulation by larger states pursuing transnational repression.
While the band members have safely arrived in Israel, human rights advocates continue to urge Thai authorities to respect arrest procedures. They emphasize that this case highlights the potential risks faced by individuals without international attention. The deportation of Bi-2 from Thailand serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by dissenting voices and the importance of safeguarding human rights principles in the face of external pressures.
Overall, the successful deportation of the Russian-Belarusian rock band Bi-2 from Thailand to Israel highlights the complexities surrounding freedom of expression and the need to protect individuals from persecution. The case also sheds light on the influence of international pressure and global economic concerns in shaping government decisions.
