Activists from Vietnam and abroad have implored General Secretary To Lam to adhere to human rights commitments made during his recent visits to the U.S. and France. Their open letter demands the release of political prisoners and significant reforms to guarantee fundamental freedoms. While recognizing the challenging landscape dominated by the Communist Party, supporters emphasize the need for continued advocacy for democracy.
Activists, both within Vietnam and abroad, have reached out to General Secretary To Lam of the Communist Party, urging him to uphold his promises concerning human rights as outlined in the United Nations Charter. This letter, supported by numerous individuals and organizations, surfaced online after Lam’s recent visits to the U.S. and France, where he emphasized a commitment to human rights during discussions with leaders like President Biden and President Macron. In their letter, activists stressed that simply declaring support for human rights is insufficient. They argued that these commitments must translate into real, actionable reforms. “Vietnam’s development cannot be based solely on political or diplomatic declarations, but must be based on respecting and implementing the fundamental rights of all people,” the activists asserted. The activists urged the government to take significant steps, including the release of political prisoners, ensuring freedom of expression, and initiating legal reforms to align with international agreements. They called for political reform towards a multi-party system and the facilitation of free elections. As one initiator put it, this moment represents a chance for a transformative change under To Lam’s leadership. Acknowledging the challenges posed by the Communist Party’s stronghold on power, activist Nguyen Tien Trung reflected on the tough road ahead. He emphasized the need to keep advocating for democracy despite the apparent imbalance of power, stating, “We still have to continuously speak up so that the Vietnamese people can see…that the opposition always exists.”
The ongoing dialogue about human rights in Vietnam has gained momentum following high-profile visits by General Secretary To Lam to Western nations. His discussions with prominent leaders emphasized a new era in Vietnam focused on human rights. However, alongside political optimism, activists are demanding substantial changes that fulfill these promises, revealing a juxtaposition between leadership rhetoric and the reality of civil liberties in the nation.
The call to action from activists highlights a pivotal moment for Vietnam, as they navigate the delicate balance of governmental promises and genuine reforms. With growing domestic and international pressure, the future remains uncertain, yet the push for fundamental rights signifies a crucial step towards establishing a more democratic Vietnam.
Original Source: www.rfa.org
