In recent years, Vietnam has witnessed a disturbing trend of arrests targeting prominent environmentalists and activists, revealing the government’s increasing intolerance towards environmental activism. This blog post highlights the recent detention of Ngo Thi To Nhien, executive director of the Vietnam Initiative for Energy Transition, and sheds light on the concerning pattern of silencing dissenting voices in the country’s environmental advocacy scene.
Growing Arrests of Environmental Figures:
Ngo Thi To Nhien, a well-respected advocate for renewable energy transition, was apprehended by Vietnamese authorities on charges of tax evasion. However, critics argue that such charges are often politically motivated, serving as a means to penalize individuals who voice dissenting opinions. Nhien’s arrest marks the sixth detention of an environmental figure in Vietnam within the past two years. Numerous recognizable faces leading registered non-profits advocating for environmental causes have also faced crackdowns.
The Political Instrument of Tax Evasion Charges:
The use of tax evasion charges as a means for silencing environmental activism by Vietnamese authorities is a cause for concern. Ben Swanton, co-director of human rights advocacy group The 88 Project, states that these arrests reveal a government that believes it can act with impunity. Hoang Thi Ming Hong, a former director of an environmental NGO and also facing tax evasion charges, exemplifies the continued targeting of individuals dedicated to tackling environmental issues.
The Politicization of Environmental Concerns in Vietnam:
Environmental issues in Vietnam have become politicized in recent decades. Grievances regarding the environment are often coupled with criticisms of the government. The country has witnessed large-scale protests against projects with detrimental environmental impacts, accompanied by an evasive government response. Activism aimed at highlighting ineffective environmental governance and illegal business practices is viewed by authorities as a direct challenge to one-party rule.
Implications for Diplomatic Relations:
Vietnam’s heavy-handed approach to suppressing environmental activism has consequences for its diplomatic engagements. The international community expressed concern over the detention of environmental expert Hoang Thi Ming Hong, raising questions regarding the commitment to involving civil society in the Just Energy Transition Partnership. Germany, a G7 member involved in the agreement, criticized Hong’s arrest. The Vietnamese government has made some concessions, releasing climate activist Nguy Thi Khanh ahead of schedule, but concerns remain regarding human rights and environmental governance.
The Role of International Pressure:
International pressure has played a role in some instances, such as the early release of climate activist Nguy Thi Khanh and journalist Mai Phan Loi. Pressure from the U.S. embassy in Vietnam and a bipartisan letter from members of Congress highlighted human rights violations. However, the recent joint statement made by President Joe Biden and Vietnamese counterpart Nguyen Phu Trong primarily focused on economic and security issues, with human rights given minimal attention. Vietnam’s human rights record is unlikely to significantly affect its growing ties with the West, especially in light of concerns about China.
The crackdown on environmental activism in Vietnam raises serious concerns about the government’s intolerance towards dissent and its impact on civil liberties. The repeated use of tax evasion charges against environmental figures and the politicization of environmental concerns highlight an authoritarian and paranoid regime. As Vietnam aims for significant energy transition and builds diplomatic relationships, it is crucial to address the suppression of environmental advocacy, ensuring that human rights and environmental governance remain at the forefront of discussions.
The post “The Crackdown on Environmental Activism in Vietnam: A Growing Concern” first appeared on the European News Global.
European News Global 