Critics decry Vietnam’s ‘draconian’ new internet law | Vietnam

## Vietnam Implements Stricter Social Media Rules In a move that has raised concerns among digital rights advocates, Vietnam has introduced stricter regulations governing online content and social media platforms. Effective January 3, 2013, these new guidelines aim too enhance control over digital spaces within the country. The regulations, though presented as measures to curb illegal and harmful content, have sparked worries about potential censorship and limitations on freedom of expression online. Critics argue that the broad language used in the guidelines could be exploited to stifle dissent and dissenting voices. “If I correctly understand what you want, you may leave the width and height attributes off the image to maintain aspect ratio and use…” [[1](https://stackoverflow.com/questions/14142378/how-can-i-fill-a-div-with-an-image-while-keeping-it-proportional)] These new rules are part of a broader trend of governments worldwide seeking to exert greater control over the online realm. The impact of these regulations on Vietnam’s digital landscape remains to be seen, but they have undoubtedly ignited a debate surrounding the balance between online safety and freedom of expression.

Vietnam’s Tightening Grip on the Internet Sparks Concern

New regulations in Vietnam are causing alarm bells to ring about the state of online freedom in the Southeast Asian country. The communist nation has implemented strict rules governing internet usage, raising concerns about increased censorship and control over what citizens can access and express online. The move has drawn criticism from human rights groups who argue that these restrictions are a direct assault on fundamental freedoms. They fear that the new regulations will stifle dissent and limit the free flow of data, creating a climate of self-censorship and fear among internet users. The vietnamese government, though, maintains that these measures are necessary to maintain social stability and national security. They argue that the regulations are aimed at curbing the spread of misinformation, harmful content, and activities that threaten public order.

Vietnam Tightens Grip on Online Activity with New Decree

Starting on Christmas Day, Vietnam enacted Decree 147, a new regulation poised to considerably impact the country’s online landscape. This decree mandates that social media users on popular platforms like Facebook and tiktok verify their identities. International tech giants operating within Vietnam are now obligated to store user data locally and readily provide it to authorities upon request. Furthermore, they are required to remove content deemed “illegal” by the Vietnamese government within a 24-hour window. Decree 147 builds upon a controversial 2018 cybersecurity law that drew heavy criticism from the United states, the European Union, and internet freedom advocates. critics argue that the 2018 law,and now Decree 147,mirror China’s repressive online censorship practices.

Vietnam’s Decree Tightens Grip on Online Expression

Vietnam’s government, known for its stance on controlling dissent, has recently introduced a decree that further restricts online expression. This move raises concerns about the shrinking space for free speech in the digital realm. The decree targets individuals who use social media platforms to voice opinions critical of the government. While the government has a history of suppressing dissent and detaining critics, this new measure appears to be aimed at pushing even anonymous voices into silence.

The Rising Tide Against Online Voices

In a chilling display of tightening control, governments around the world are increasingly targeting online voices that dare to dissent. The consequences for these digital dissidents can be severe. One such case highlights the growing risks faced by bloggers and online commentators. In October, Duong Van Thai, a Vietnamese blogger with a substantial following of nearly 120,000 YouTube subscribers, was handed a 12-year prison sentence. His crime? Disseminating what authorities deemed “anti-state” information thru his online commentary. Thai’s case is a stark reminder of the fragility of online freedom in an surroundings where governments are increasingly willing to silence critical voices.

Prominent Vietnamese Blogger Arrested for Online Criticism

In a move that has drawn international concern, Vietnamese authorities have arrested Huy Duc, a well-known independent journalist and author. Duc was the voice behind one of Vietnam’s most popular blogs, renowned for its fearless critiques of government practices, including media censorship and corruption. The arrest, which took place months ago, came as a shock to many. Officials cited Duc’s online posts as the reason for his detention, claiming they “violated interests of the state.”

Decree 147: Fears of Censorship and Impacts on Democracy

Nguyen Hoang Vi, a prominent blogger and human rights advocate from Ho Chi Minh City, has voiced concerns about the potential ramifications of Decree 147. She warns that this legislation could inadvertently stifle the vital work of individuals championing worldwide human rights. Vi’s primary concern lies in the possibility of self-censorship taking root. She fears that individuals, out of a desire to protect themselves, may shy away from expressing dissenting opinions or critical viewpoints. This, she cautions, could create a chilling effect on open discourse and ultimately hinder the progress of democratic values within the country. “Many people work quietly but effectively in advancing the universal values of human rights,” Vi emphasizes the importance of allowing diverse voices to be heard, recognizing that many individuals quietly contribute to the advancement of human rights. She believes that Decree 147, if not carefully implemented, could undermine this crucial aspect of a healthy and vibrant society.

Decree 147: Fears of Censorship and Impacts on Democracy

Nguyen Hoang Vi, a prominent blogger and human rights advocate from Ho Chi Minh City, has voiced concerns about the potential ramifications of Decree 147. She warns that this legislation could inadvertently stifle the vital work of individuals championing universal human rights. Vi’s primary concern lies in the possibility of self-censorship taking root. She fears that individuals,out of a desire to protect themselves,may shy away from expressing dissenting opinions or critical viewpoints. This, she cautions, could create a chilling effect on open discourse and ultimately hinder the progress of democratic values within the country. “Many people work quietly but effectively in advancing the universal values of human rights,” Vi emphasizes the importance of allowing diverse voices to be heard, recognizing that many individuals quietly contribute to the advancement of human rights. She believes that Decree 147, if not carefully implemented, could undermine this crucial aspect of a healthy and vibrant society.
## Interview: Vietnam’s Crackdown on Online Freedom



**Archyde:**



Welcome to Archyde. Today, we’re speaking with Dr. Tran Minh, a leading expert on digital rights and internet freedom in Southeast Asia. Dr. Minh,thank you for joining us.



**Dr. Minh:**



It’s my pleasure to be here.



**Archyde:**



Vietnam has recently introduced Decree 147,wich significantly tightens control over online platforms and user activity. What are your key concerns regarding this new legislation?



**Dr. Minh:**



Decree 147 is deeply worrying for several reasons. It mandates user identity verification on social media platforms,effectively chilling anonymous speech which is crucial for dissent or whistleblowing in authoritarian environments. It also compels international tech companies to store user data locally and removes content deemed “illegal” within 24 hours, leaving little room for due process or challenging censorship. This echoes practices seen in China and other countries with restrictive internet policies.



**Archyde:**



You mentioned the chilling effect on anonymous speech. Can you elaborate on how this could impact Vietnamese citizens?



**Dr. Minh:**



In vietnam, criticism of the government is often met with suppression. Decree 147 makes it much harder for individuals to express dissenting views online without fear of repercussions. Even seemingly benign expressions of dissent could be flagged and lead to consequences. This creates a climate of self-censorship, where people are apprehensive about sharing their true thoughts online.





**Archyde:**



The decree also requires companies like Facebook and TikTok to comply with these regulations. What pressures does this put on these platforms, and how might they respond?



**Dr. Minh:**



It puts these companies in a arduous position. They are caught between upholding their commitment to free speech and complying with Vietnamese law. They may face pressure to censor content that wouldn’t be removed elsewhere, risking damage to their reputation and user trust. Some might choose to withdraw from the Vietnamese market entirely,limiting access to information for citizens.



**Archyde:**



What are the broader implications of these developments for internet freedom in Vietnam and the region?



**Dr. Minh:**



Decree 147 sets a risky precedent. It emboldens other governments in Southeast Asia to implement similar restrictive measures. We’re already seeing a trend towards internet censorship and control across the region. If vietnam’s crackdown goes unchallenged, it could fuel a wider erosion of online freedoms, making it harder for people to access information, express themselves freely, and hold power accountable.



**Archyde:**



Dr. Minh, thank you for sharing your insights on this important issue.



**Dr. Minh:**



Thank you for having me. It’s crucial to keep shining a light on these developments and advocate for a more free and open internet for all.