Vietnam Must End Human Rights Violations—Not Just "Walk the Talk"
The Californer/10343603

WESTMINSTER, Calif. - Californer -- Since assuming leadership of the Communist Party of Vietnam in August 2025, Mr. To Lam has repeatedly invoked the language of "rule of law, transparency, and accountability." These statements do not match reality. Instead, they serve as a veneer for an intensifying campaign to silence dissent and consolidate control.

Escalating Crackdown on Dissidents
In just the last six months, nearly 30 activists have been arrested, most under vague national security provisions designed to criminalize peaceful expression. These laws are being used exactly as intended: to punish citizens for exercising basic rights guaranteed under Vietnam's own Constitution and international commitments.

The pattern is clear. In early March, Hanoi police arrested former prisoner of conscience Le Anh Hung for the third time under Article 117 ("propaganda against the State"). Weeks later, authorities in Dak Lak sentenced former political prisoner Huynh Ngoc Tuan to eight years and six months in prison—again under Article 117. These are not isolated cases; they are part of a systematic policy of repression.

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Increased Control over the Media
In late March, the Party formalized its control over key national institutions, including Vietnam Television, the Voice of Vietnam, and the Vietnam News Agency, by reclassifying them as Party-affiliated bodies.

At the same time, citizens face punitive fines for online expression. In one telling case, an individual was fined 7.5 million dong for predicting a fuel price increase—an entirely accurate statement. Such actions underscore a simple reality: truth itself is becoming punishable.

Expanding Surveillance and Social Control
The government is rapidly expanding its surveillance apparatus, from the mass installation of security cameras to forcing citizens to hand over private data. This practice is not about public safety; it is about control.

Compounding these concerns, the Ministry of Public Security is advancing a decree that would fine individuals up to 70 million VND for failing to "protect their own personal data." This provision is as unreasonable as it is dangerous, effectively shifting state responsibility onto citizens while creating new tools for arbitrary punishment.

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Conclusion and Call to Action
The gap between rhetoric and reality in Vietnam is no longer credible. Mr. To Lam's promises of reform ring hollow in the face of systematic repression carried out under his leadership.

We call on the leadership of the Communist Party of Vietnam to immediately end the persecution of dissidents, repeal repressive laws, and allow independent civil society to operate without interference.

We further call on democratic governments and the international community to move beyond statements of concern and take concrete action. Vietnam must be held accountable for its obligations under international human rights law.

Tung Nguyen
Executive Director
Vietnam Human Rights Network

Ngu Vu
Director
Defend the Defenders