Human rights in Vietnam
Findings and figures from independent organisations, each linked to its source.
At a glance
Reports and statements
Human Rights Watch: record "dire in virtually all areas" ↗
HRW says the Communist Party holds a monopoly on political power and that freedoms of expression, peaceful assembly, association and religion are severely restricted. Activists and bloggers face police intimidation, harassment, restricted movement and arbitrary arrest; dissidents often receive long prison terms on what HRW calls bogus charges.
Joint letter on human rights ahead of President To Lam's visit ↗
HRW and partner organisations wrote to governments hosting Vietnam's President To Lam, urging them to raise human rights abuses during his visit.
Free Vietnam's Political Prisoners ↗
HRW interactive feature on Vietnam's political prisoners.
Vietnam: Free Abducted Democracy Group Activists ↗
Human Rights Watch news release calling for the release of activists of a democracy group who were abducted.
CPJ and partners call on Rubio to press for release of imprisoned Vietnamese journalists ↗
CPJ and partner organisations urged the US Secretary of State to press Vietnam to release imprisoned journalists.
Journalist Doan Bao Chau sentenced in absentia to 7 years for anti-state reporting ↗
CPJ reports the sentencing in absentia of Vietnamese journalist Doan Bao Chau for anti-state reporting.
Journalist Huynh Ngoc Tuan sentenced to 8½ years for anti-state propaganda ↗
CPJ reports that Vietnam sentenced journalist Huynh Ngoc Tuan to 8½ years for anti-state propaganda.
Amnesty Report 2025/26: online surveillance and press law ↗
Amnesty describes a proposed Cyber Security Law amendment requiring internet providers to hand over users' IP addresses and remove content within 24 hours of a police request, a proposed press law that could require journalists to reveal their sources, and police fines for social media posts.
Amnesty Report 2025/26: ill-treatment of imprisoned activists ↗
Imprisoned activists reportedly faced harsh punishments including leg shackles, solitary confinement and limited family visits. Dissident Vuong Van Tha died in prison on 2 September 2025; his family disputed the official account of suicide and called for an independent investigation. Amnesty also notes that eight offences were removed from the death penalty.
Sources: Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International, Freedom House, Reporters Without Borders, CPJ, UN. Figures are quoted from the sources and may be updated. Check the link for the latest.