Reichert Applauds Passage of Vietnam Human Rights Act

Press Release

Reichert Applauds Passage of Vietnam Human Rights Act

Congressman Dave Reichert (WA-08) applauded passage of the Vietnam Human Rights Act of 2007, H.R. 3096, which prohibits U.S. non-humanitarian assistance to Vietnam unless the president certifies that Vietnam is meeting several requirements with regard to its record on human rights.

"I'm pleased Congress is showing its support for the people suffering in Southeast Asia," said Reichert. " Vietnam is one of the largest and fastest growing nations in Southeast Asia with the U.S. as its principal investor and trading partner. As partners in trade, we have a responsibility to proactively address the political and religious suppression of the Vietnamese. HR 3096 sends a clear message to Hanoi that their human rights violations remain a serious concern of the U.S."

These requirements include:

* Progress is made toward releasing all political prisoners;
* Substantial steps are taken toward respecting the right to freedom of religion;
* Vietnamese nationals are allowed free and open access to U.S. refugee programs;
* Improvements are made in respecting the human rights of members of all ethnic minorities; and,
* There is no government complicity in human trafficking. (The bill grants the president the authority to waive this prohibition.)

Despite improving relations with the United States and a flourishing economy, Vietnam has struggled to improve its record on human rights. According to the State Department's 2006 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices, Vietnam's human-rights record remains unsatisfactory. The government continues to exert its control over the press and the internet, deny individuals the right to fair trials, prohibit independent human-rights organizations, and abuse religious freedoms. Additionally, significant concerns remain with trafficking in women and children.

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