UN Human Rights Council Expresses Concern Over Vietnam’s Violation of Lawyers’ Rights

 

VNHRN | June 22, 2026 

On June 17, 2026, the UN Human Rights Council’s Special Rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers and the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders sent a Letter to the Government of Vietnam expressing concern regarding amendments to the legal framework governing the legal profession, introduced via Decree No. 109/2026/NĐ-CP.

The letter points out that several provisions in the Decree may be inconsistent with international human rights standards concerning the independence of lawyers, the autonomy of professional associations, and the right to effective legal assistance; this includes provisions allowing for the imposition of broad administrative sanctions—such as the temporary suspension of practicing certificates—for vaguely defined professional conduct. The document also notes that these regulations could affect the right to a fair trial.

As of the time the letter was made public, there has been no response from the Government of Vietnam.

 

 

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