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Amnesty International urges that proper consideration is given to the release of all prisoners of conscience in Viet Nam
Amnesty International 23 May 2017
As Viet Nam and the US hold their annual human rights dialogue in Ha Noi on 23 May 2017, Amnesty International urges that proper consideration is given to the release of all prisoners of conscience in Viet Nam, including Trần Huỳnh Duy Thức, who is half way through a 16-year prison sentence. Like other prisoners of conscience, he should never have been arrested in the first place for peacefully exercising his right to freedom of expression.
An Open Letter from 14 Amnesty International Directors also calls on Viet Nam’s prison authorities to ensure that their treatment of Trần Huỳnh Duy Thức adheres strictly, as a minimum, to the Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners (Nelson Mandela Rules) so that he is treated with dignity and respect while he is incarcerated. This applies to all prisoners of conscience in Viet Nam who face harsh treatment and conditions of detention.
Janice Beanland Campaigner for Cambodia, Laos, Viet Nam Southeast Asia and Pacific Regional Office (SEAPRO) Amnesty International, London
Tel: + 44 (0)20 7413 5660 Mobile: + 44 (0)7986 148967 Skype: janicebeanland Twitter: @janbeanland
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