Vietnam’s New Decree 147 Raises Concerns Over Internet Freedom
Table of Contents
- 1. Vietnam’s New Decree 147 Raises Concerns Over Internet Freedom
- 2. Strengthening Control over Online Activity
- 3. Concerns Over Self-Censorship and Stifling Dissent
- 4. the Government’s Justification
- 5. vietnam Tightens Grip on internet Access and Civil Society
- 6. Stricter Control Over Internet Access
- 7. Cracking Down on Civil Society
- 8. What is the primary concern surrounding Vietnam’s Decree 147, and how does it potentially impact freedom of expression in the contry?
Vietnam has begun enforcing decree 147, a controversial new regulation that expands the government’s control over internet services. Implemented on December 25, 2024, Decree 147 requires tech companies operating within Vietnam to verify user identities, store user data, and remove content deemed illegal by authorities. This move has sparked widespread concern among human rights advocates and digital rights activists, who see it as a further erosion of free speech and privacy in the country.
Strengthening Control over Online Activity
Decree 147 builds upon the 2018 law on Cybersecurity, which already criminalized the posting of content deemed harmful to the state, such as spreading ”false details” or “opposing the state.” The new decree extends these restrictions, requiring social media companies and other platforms to verify user accounts using phone numbers or personal identification numbers.
this move has been criticized for jeopardizing the anonymity of online dissidents, who often rely on anonymity to avoid persecution. As Tran Anh Quan, a Vietnamese activist living in exile, pointed out in an interview with Voice of America, “Dissidents in Vietnam often use fake accounts, or do not verify their social media accounts, to avoid being fined by the police. But this decree requires users to verify their identities on social media. And those who express dissent will certainly be considered to have violated regulations for ‘bad’ or ‘anti-state’ content.”
Concerns Over Self-Censorship and Stifling Dissent
human Rights Watch condemned Decree 147, stating that it “neither protect[s] the public from any genuine security concerns nor respect [s] basic human rights.” The organization warned about the decree’s implication for dissidents,who could face arrest for expressing their views online.
vietnamese blogger and rights activist Nguyen Hoang Vi expressed concern that the new decree would encourage self-censorship, leading people to avoid expressing dissenting views for fear of reprisal. “This may encourage self-censorship,” Vi noted, “where people avoid expressing dissenting views to protect their safety — ultimately harming the overall advancement of democratic values” in the country.
Former political prisoner Le Anh Hung echoed these concerns, stating, “This is the latest sign of infringement of basic freedoms… with a vague line between what is legal and what is not.”
the Government’s Justification
Despite the widespread criticism, Nguyen Tien Ma, from the Interaction Ministry’s Department of Cyber Security, defended the necessity of user verification. He argued that “Account authentication helps authorities identify the real identity behind the account, providing good support for the investigation and handling of violations.”
The implementation of Decree 147 marks a meaningful escalation in vietnam’s efforts to control online activity. As concerns over internet freedom and digital rights grow, the international community is closely watching how this new law will impact the lives of Vietnamese citizens.
vietnam Tightens Grip on internet Access and Civil Society
Vietnam’s government has implemented a sweeping new internet law, Decree 101, raising concerns over digital rights and freedom of expression. The decree, which came into effect on November 26th, 2024, grants authorities broad powers to regulate online activity and control the flow of information.
Stricter Control Over Internet Access
Decree 101 imposes stringent requirements on internet service providers, mandating that they remove content deemed “harmful” by the government. Gaming is also subject to new restrictions, especially for minors, with daily playtime limits imposed in internet shops. the law even requires owners of public Wi-Fi hotspots, such as those found in hotels and airports, to prevent users from accessing websites deemed critical of the state.
— Amnesty International USA (@amnestyusa) December 24, 2024
Cracking Down on Civil Society
In a parallel move, the government introduced Decree 126, placing further restrictions on the formation and operation of civil society organizations.Alongside empowering authorities to monitor and control their activities, the decree imposes limitations on foreign funding.
A study conducted by human rights group Project 88 warns that Decree 126 substantially hinders the ability of civil society groups to function independently.
“The new decree makes it more challenging to establish an association and gives the government more power to control and monitor the activities and funding sources of associations once they are established. Decree 126 grants the government unfettered authority to stop people from forming associations and to stop associations from operating independently.”
Adding to the burden, Decree 126 requires associations to seek government approval even when disbanding. Project 88 accused authorities of being “paranoid leaders who want to tighten their chokehold on associations in the country,” in an interview with Radio Free Asia.
Yet another rights abusing decree implemented in #Vietnam – this time, Decree 126 to arbitrarily restrict & shut down civil society associations that the ruling Communist Party doesn’t like. Time for international community to stop giving #Hanoi‘s authoritarians a free pass on… pic.twitter.com/N5HaP7Ivr2
— Phil robertson (@Reaproy) December 17, 2024
What is the primary concern surrounding Vietnam’s Decree 147, and how does it potentially impact freedom of expression in the contry?
Interview with Dr. Linh Nguyen, Digital Rights Advocate and Cybersecurity Expert
archyde News: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Nguyen. As a digital rights advocate and cybersecurity expert,you’ve been closely following the implementation of Vietnam’s decree 147. Can you explain the key aspects of this decree and why it has sparked such widespread concern?
Dr. Linh Nguyen: Thank you for having me. Decree 147, which came into effect on December 25, 2024, requires tech companies operating in Vietnam to verify user identities, store user data, and remove content deemed illegal by the government. While the government claims this is necessary for national security and to combat online violations, the decree effectively erodes online anonymity and privacy. This is particularly concerning for dissidents, activists, and ordinary citizens who rely on anonymity to express dissent or share critical views without fear of persecution.
Archyde News: Critics argue that Decree 147 will lead to self-censorship and stifle free expression. Do you share these concerns?
Dr. Linh Nguyen: Absolutely. The decree creates a chilling effect.When users know their identities are tied to their online activities, they are far less likely to express dissenting opinions or engage in critical discourse. This is especially true in a country like Vietnam, where the line between legal and illegal content is often vague and subject to government interpretation. Activists like Nguyen Hoang vi and Le anh Hung have rightly pointed out that this will harm democratic values and the free exchange of ideas.
Archyde News: The government has defended the decree, arguing that it helps authorities identify and address violations more effectively. How do you respond to this justification?
Dr. Linh Nguyen: While the government claims this is about security and accountability,the reality is that Decree 147 is a tool for surveillance and control. Nguyen Tien Ma from the Department of Cyber Security argues that account authentication supports investigations, but this overlooks the broader implications. By requiring identity verification, the government can easily track and target individuals who express views it deems unfavorable.this is not about protecting the public; it’s about consolidating power and silencing dissent.
Archyde News: human Rights Watch has condemned the decree, stating that it neither protects the public nor respects basic human rights. Do you believe there are alternative measures that could balance security and freedom?
Dr. Linh Nguyen: Certainly.Governments worldwide face the challenge of balancing security and freedom, but measures like Decree 147 are disproportionate and counterproductive. Rather of blanket identity verification,authorities could focus on targeted investigations based on credible threats. Openness and accountability in how content is flagged and removed are also crucial. Additionally, fostering an open dialog with civil society and tech companies could help develop solutions that protect both security and human rights.
Archyde News: What do you think the international community’s role should be in addressing these concerns?
Dr. Linh Nguyen: The international community must hold Vietnam accountable for its actions. This includes diplomatic pressure, public statements, and support for local civil society organizations. Tech companies also have a responsibility to resist overreach and protect user privacy. While they may face pressure to comply with local laws, they should prioritize human rights and push back against demands that undermine freedom of expression.
Archyde News: what message would you like to send to the people of Vietnam who are concerned about the impact of Decree 147?
Dr. Linh Nguyen: To the people of Vietnam, I would say: Your voices matter. While the risks are real, it’s vital to continue advocating for your rights and supporting one another. The international community is watching, and there are organizations and individuals working to amplify your concerns. Stay informed, use secure dialogue tools where possible, and remember that the fight for freedom and democracy is a collective effort.
Archyde News: Thank you, dr. Nguyen, for your insights and expertise. We appreciate your time and outlook on this critical issue.
Dr. Linh Nguyen: thank you for having me. it’s crucial to keep these conversations alive and to shine a light on the challenges facing digital rights in Vietnam and beyond.
