National Security Online Resource Center

I have not yet decided on a “Dictator of the Month” for January, but the leadership of Socialist Republic of Vietnam officially puts forth its candidacy with the June arrest of three dissidents. The most notable arrest is that of an American-educated attorney who has been an advocate for human rights.

The article reports that the arrests, on charges of “subversion” that carry a potential death sentence, come as the Communist Party of Vietnam prepares for its 2011 Communist Party Conference. For those who are unfamiliar with communist administrations, communist countries host occasional “party conferences” where the official party positions are decided. In light of such an event where major policy decisions in Vietnam will be made, a totalitarian state would naturally but sadly crack down on dissenters.

I am looking forward to President Obama’s response to this crackdown. Vietnam has fallen off the radar in terms of media coverage, but that is no reason to ignore its human rights violations. Considering Obama’s hesitation to speak out against human rights violations in non-western countries (think of Iran for instance), I would not hold my breath for his response.

The dissidents are expected to stand trial relatively soon, according to the New York Times. I will write a follow up post on the trial’s outcome when it is official. But as the accused have already “confessed” and asked the government for clemency, this trial is more likely to be a show trial where the sentencing will be the only interesting outcome.