The European Union Faces Criticism for Human Rights Dialogues with Southeast Asian Authoritarian Governments

Despite concerns over human rights abuses in Vietnam, the European Union continues to engage in formal dialogues with the country’s Communist government. Campaign groups are urging Brussels to halt these talks, accusing them of being merely “box-ticking” exercises that fail to address the worsening human rights situation in Vietnam.

According to Human Rights Watch, Vietnam has made little progress on human rights issues raised by EU officials over the years, and repression has even intensified since the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement came into effect in 2020. With 192 activists currently imprisoned in Vietnam, and another 400 at risk, the situation remains dire.

Human Rights Watch is calling on the EU to consider suspending trade agreements with Vietnam and implement targeted sanctions against responsible officials. Despite some EU officials acknowledging the lack of progress in Vietnam’s human rights record, they believe in continuing engagement for potential improvements.

Conclusion

While some EU representatives express disappointment in the lack of progress, ongoing talks are seen as vital for potential advancements in human rights. However, calls for concrete action are growing louder as the situation in Vietnam remains bleak.

Edited by: Srinivas Mazumdaru