Written by Don Byrd
In 2006, Vietnam was removed from the U.S. State Department’s list of Countries of Particular Concern (CPC) following the country’s softening of religious persecution. Unfortunately, the step forward may not have lasted. The US Commission on International Religious Freedom recommends Vietnam’s return to the CPC list.
President Truong Tan Sang is visiting the White House today to meet with President Obama, and met with Secretary of State John Kerry yesterday. Many advocates are urging the White House to use this occasion to press the President on the issues of religious liberty and free speech.
In a piece for CNN.com. for example, former USCIRF Deputy Director for policy Scott Flipse writes:
If Washington sends a crystal clear message that expanded relations depend on concrete human rights improvements, then Hanoi can be expected to respond accordingly.
In his meeting this week, President Obama should tell President Truong Tan Sang that Vietnam will get the trade preferences and security assurances it wants only when all prisoners of conscience are released, when internet censorship is ended, when suppression of independent labor and religious organizations are halted, and Vietnam demonstrates a move to a “rule-of-law” system in all areas, not just those advancing its economic interests.
A Washington Times editorial makes a similar case today.
