The US State Department has recently voiced its concerns regarding the convictions of ethnic minority and religious freedom advocates in Vietnam. The Department’s statement highlights the convictions of five individuals since January 2024 and has called for the Vietnamese government to uphold freedoms of expression, association, and religion or belief.
One noted case is that of Y Krec Bya, a member of the Central Highlands Evangelical Church of Christ. Bya, who has been a peaceful advocate for freedom of religion or belief in Vietnam, was convicted on April 8 under Article 116 of the Penal Code for alleged “sabotage of national unity policy”. The U.S. State Department has expressed serious concerns over Bya’s 13-year sentence.
The department’s statement additionally underscores the ongoing imprisonment of individuals such as Nay Y Blang, Danh Minh Quang, Thach Cuong, and To Hoang Chuong. All have been actively and peacefully advocating for human rights in Vietnam, including freedom of religion or belief. The State Department has reiterated its plea for Vietnam to release all unjustly detained individuals.
Human Rights Watch has indicated that the Vietnamese government restricts religious practice through legislation, registration requirements, harassment, and surveillance and often intervenes with any religious activities it perceives as contrary to “national interest,” “public order,” or “national unity.” Independent religious groups not recognized by the government and operating outside government-controlled institutions are reportedly subjected to constant surveillance. Followers have reported incidents of public criticism, forced renunciation of faith, and prosecution.
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