The Unrepresented Nations and Peoples Organization (UNPO) reiterates its strong concern over the ongoing repression of the Khmer Krom community in Viet Nam.
On 26 August 2025, UNPO issued a press release welcoming the Opinion of the UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention (WGAD) concerning Khmer Krom Indigenous activists Mr. To Hoang Chuong and Mr. Thach Cuong, and denouncing the broader pattern of repression faced by the Khmer Krom. That statement also highlighted the cases of 17 Khmer Krom human rights defenders, activists, and Theravada Buddhist monks who have been arbitrarily detained, ill-treated, and sentenced under vague legal provisions for exercising their fundamental rights.
Today, we have been informed of a new Joint Allegation Letter (VNM 5.2025), sent by the Special Procedures of the UN Human Rights Council to the Government of Viet Nam on 21 July 2025. This Letter reiterates and confirms the concerns that UNPO already denounced in its 26 August press release, underscoring the alarming pattern of arbitrary arrests, unfair trials, and discriminatory treatment against Indigenous activists and Buddhist monks. Among those affected are Venerable Thach Chanh Da Ra, Mr. Kim Khiem, Mr. Thach Ve Sanal, Venerable Duong Khai, Venerable Thach Quy Lay, Venerable Kim Sa Ruong, Venerable Thach Chop, Mr. Thach Nha, Mr. Kim Khu, Venerable Kim Som Rinh, Mr. Thach Nga, Mr. Thach Xuan Dong, Mr. Danh Minh Quang, Mr. To Hoang Chuong, Mr. Thach Cuong, Mr. Danh Set, and Mr. Lam Vong. Their only “crime” has been the peaceful exercise of their rights to religion, culture, language, and freedom of expression.
UNPO welcomes this Joint Allegation Letter and is pleased that the Special Procedures of the Human Rights Council have once again highlighted the violations faced by the Khmer Krom. However, it is deeply troubling that the Government of Viet Nam has so far failed to respond to these serious allegations, despite repeated calls by the United Nations and the international community. This silence not only reflects a lack of accountability but also perpetuates the climate of fear and repression experienced by the Khmer Krom people.
UNPO therefore continues to strongly condemn these violations and calls on Viet Nam to immediately end the persecution of the Khmer Krom. We reaffirm our unwavering solidarity with our Khmer Krom members, particularly the 17 individuals targeted and their families, who continue to suffer the consequences of this repression. Their courage in the face of intimidation and violence is a reminder of the urgent need for international attention and action to ensure that their fundamental rights are fully respected and protected.
