Call to assist Vietnamese dissidents Le Quoc Quan and Cu Huy Ha Vu

Khanh VU DUC
VDK LAW OFFICE – Canada

I am writing this as a follow up to a previous letter (February 21, 2013) regarding the current status of Vietnamese dissidents Mr. Le Quoc Quan and Dr. Cu Huy Ha Vu.

I wish to update you on the abuse, and violations of human and civil rights perpetrated by the Government of Vietnam. Mr. Le Quoc Quan, a prominent human rights lawyer and blogger, was arrested for alleged tax evasion; and Dr. Cu Huy Ha Vu, an advocate for democracy, was arrested for speaking out against the state. Vietnamese authorities have continued to deny these men rights guaranteed not only under international conventions but also Vietnam’s constitution.

These arrests, to say nothing of the Vietnamese government’s refusal to respect the rule of law, are in clear violation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, to which Vietnam is a signatory and party. Moreover, their conduct speaks to the level of sincerity regarding Vietnam’s respect for its citizens and the international community it claims to be a part of.

The Vietnamese people desire more, but they are prevented from benefiting from all the rights guaranteed by their constitution due to the actions of their government. It may be that Canada is limited in their response to Vietnam’s violations; nevertheless, attention should be brought on this matter.

It is my hope that as you tackle similar issues of civil and human rights violations around the world, you could shine some much needed light on a government that has remained obstinate in the face of change.

At last, I wish to thank you for your time and consideration. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or need any additional information.

Yours sincerely,