Human rights is always a hot topic around the world. In recent years, the discussion of human rights in Vietnam has become more prominent. Many believe that Vietnam has many human rights violations as they do not allow for basic civil liberties, as well as political rights. In this post, I will discuss in more detail the human rights issues in Vietnam.
Vietnam is currently under a one party rule by the Communist Party of Vietnam, or the CVP. The CVP enforces many restrictions that suppress what are considered basic rights. This includes restrictions on freedom of expression, association, peaceful assembly, movement and religion. The government has also set in place prohibitions on independent labor unions, human rights organizations and political parties. Additionally, recently there was a decree that restricts international nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) from operating in Vietnam. Another thing that many people take issue with is the removal of content critical of the ruling party (the CVP).
Within Vietnam, there are currently about 160 people in prison for peaceful exercsising of basic civil and political rights. Many of these people have been protestors and activists who are looking to spark change in their country. Additionally, in some cases, gatherings of people have been met with violence from authorities during peaceful marches/protests.
Vietnam also has strict restrictions on media. With the prohibition of independent or privately owned media outlets, the CVP has control over what reaches the public. The government decides what gets shared and what does not reach the public. This also comes into play with the governments strict control over radio, television and print publications. The government restricts what gets said. This is also seen in the removal of critical content on social media.
There is also pretty large restrictions on religion. Restrictions have been put in place through legislation, registration requirements, and surveillance. Religious groups must get approval from the government to gather and practice their religion. They are also required to register with the government, so that the government can keep track. While there are some government sponsored churches and other places of worship, it is difficult for people to freely practice their religion as they wish, especially with the registration and surveillance of the government.
Over the years, the CVP has promised certain protections that they have not been able to act on. They have said that they would allow freedom of religion and remove restrictions but, as we can see, there continue to barriers that prevent people from living freely. There have been many promises that have been broken or not kept with the country itself.
To read more:
- https://www.hrw.org/world-report/2023/country-chapters/vietnam
- https://www.hrw.org/news/2023/10/03/vietnam-rights-reforms-urgently-needed
- https://freedomhouse.org/country/vietnam/freedom-net/2023
- https://www.state.gov/2023-u-s-vietnam-human-rights-dialogue/
- https://www.voanews.com/a/vietnam-us-upgrade-partnership-activists-critique-silence-on-human-rights-/7267878.html