Vietnam’s Climate Activist: Charges Must Be Dropped

Vietnam: Drop Charges Against Climate Activist Hoang Thi Minh Hong

Introduction

The Vietnamese government is facing criticism for its continued persecution of environmental activists, with the most recent case being that of Hoang Thi Minh Hong. The prominent environmental leader is set to face criminal charges on September 28, 2023, for alleged tax evasion. Human Rights Watch has called for the immediate dropping of all charges against Hong, highlighting the government’s use of vague tax codes to suppress activists who pose a threat to their power. This report will provide an overview of the case, discuss the broader context of Vietnam‘s crackdown on civil society activists, and examine the implications for climate activism and the country’s international relationships.

The Case of Hoang Thi Minh Hong

Hoang Thi Minh Hong, the founder of the influential nongovernmental organization CHANGE VN, was arrested by Ho Chi Minh City police on May 30, 2023, on charges of tax evasion. If convicted, she could face up to seven years in prison plus fines. The sudden shutdown of CHANGE VN in October 2022 without explanation raised concerns about the targeting of environmental leaders who advocated for action on climate change and green policies.

Hong, aged 51, founded CHANGE VN in 2013 with the aim of promoting environmental conservation through education, creative communication, and inspiring the Vietnamese community to take action. The organization focused on protecting endangered wildlife, raising awareness about climate change, and advocating for pollution reduction. Over the years, CHANGE VN spearheaded more than 200 projects and campaigns related to the environment.

The Vietnamese government’s use of tax evasion charges against Hoang Thi Minh Hong and other activists is seen as a tactic to silence individuals who challenge the ruling Communist Party’s power. Phil Robertson, the deputy Asia director at Human Rights Watch, has criticized this approach, emphasizing the need to stop punishing activists who peacefully advocate for climate action and green policies.

A Crackdown on Civil Society Activists

The arrest of Hoang Thi Minh Hong is part of a broader crackdown by the Vietnamese government on civil society activists, particularly those involved in environmental causes. In recent years, prominent environmental campaigners such as Dang Dinh Bach, Mai Phan Loi, Bach Hung Duong, Nguy Thi Khanh, and Hoang Ngoc Giao have also faced tax evasion charges under article 200 of the criminal code.

International pressure has led to the release of some activists before the end of their prison sentences, indicating that outside scrutiny can have an impact. However, individuals like Dang Dinh Bach, who remains behind bars, have reportedly suffered assault in prison for demanding basic rights.

The repression of civil society activists comes at a time when the Vietnamese government seeks to portray a commitment to reducing carbon emissions through initiatives like the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP). The JETP, funded by the United States, United Kingdom, Japan, Canada, the European Union, and its member countries, aims to support Vietnam in its transition to a greener economy. However, the arrest of prominent environmental researchers like Ngo Thi To Nhien, executive director of the Vietnam Initiative for Energy Transition (VIET), raises concerns about the country’s commitment to environmental progress.

Implications for Climate Activism and International Relationships

Vietnam‘s continued persecution of environmental activists has significant implications for climate activism within the country and its international relationships. By targeting individuals who advocate for a cleaner and more sustainable environment, the Vietnamese government undermines its own professed commitment to reducing carbon emissions and addressing climate change.

The case of Hoang Thi Minh Hong and other activists highlights the need for international donors and countries involved in initiatives like the JETP to address these human rights violations. Organizations and governments supporting Vietnam‘s climate and environmental efforts should make it clear that progress in these areas cannot be achieved while activists are unjustly targeted and imprisoned.

President Joe Biden’s recent visit to Vietnam and the subsequent upgrade of the relationship between the United States and Vietnam to a “comprehensive strategic partnership” underscore the need for both countries to prioritize human rights, climate action, and environmental cooperation. As international pressure continues to mount, Vietnam‘s leaders must realize that their crackdown on environmental activists undermines their credibility and hinders progress on climate and environmental objectives.

Conclusion

The Vietnamese government’s charges against climate activist Hoang Thi Minh Hong and its broader crackdown on civil society activists send a clear message that dissent and advocacy for the environment are not tolerated. The international community must stand in solidarity with Hong and other activists, calling for the immediate dropping of all charges and their unconditional release. Vietnam‘s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and achieving environmental goals will remain questionable until it respects the rights and freedoms of those advocating for a greener future.

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