The Vietnam Human Rights Network (VNHRN) and Defend the Defenders (DtD) have condemned the arrest of author Nguyễn Thành Nam and others linked to his book, describing it as part of a broader crackdown on literary freedom in Vietnam. Mr. Nam, a former lecturer on Ho Chi Minh Thought at VinUniversity, was arrested in late June and charged under Article 117 of the Penal Code with "conducting propaganda against the State." Authorities allege his book distorts history and insults President Ho Chi Minh and other leaders.
The organizations highlighted that the arrest followed an online denunciation campaign by state-affiliated commentators, allegedly coordinated through the Communist Party's Central Propaganda and Mass Mobilization Committee. They drew parallels to the Nhan Van–Giai Pham campaign of the 1950s, which persecuted intellectuals for independent views. The crackdown has reportedly expanded to editors, printers, and distributors, with some members of the Vietnam Writers' Association facing disciplinary measures.
"The criminal prosecution of an author and those involved in publishing a literary work represents a serious assault on freedom of expression," the groups stated. They argued that peaceful discussion of history and political ideas must not be criminalized, citing Vietnam's Constitution and its obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).
The case has renewed scrutiny of Article 117, which international human rights organizations say is broadly worded and routinely used to imprison government critics. VNHRN and DtD have called for the immediate release of all detainees and for Vietnam to align its laws with international human rights standards.
The arrest of Mr. Nam is not an isolated incident but part of a pattern of suppressing dissenting voices. The Vietnamese government has repeatedly denied allegations of human rights abuses, maintaining that its legal actions are necessary to protect national security and social stability. However, the widespread criticism from international bodies and human rights groups underscores the ongoing tension between state control and individual freedoms in Vietnam.
The implications of this case extend beyond the fate of one author. It signals a potential escalation in the government's efforts to silence independent thought and criticism, particularly in the literary and intellectual communities. The international community's response, including statements from organizations like VNHRN and DtD, may increase pressure on Vietnam to respect its commitments to freedom of expression and human rights.
