2 Catholic activists freed in Vietnam

September 02, 2015

Two young Vietnamese Catholic human rights activists have been released after serving four-year prison sentences on charges of plotting to overthrow the government.

Despite pressure, the two repeatedly refused to sign confessions that would have allowed them to spend less time in prison.

“What I have been through is a priceless experience,” Tran Minh Nhat told Radio Free Asia. “In prison, I could see we will never have civilization or progress in a society if that society is not based on the equality, justice and love between people.”

The other activist, Thai Van Dung, went on a 12-day hunger strike in an attempt to be granted the right to read religious literature.

Following their release, both vowed to continue to advocate for democracy and human rights, according to AsiaNews.

 

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Further information:

• Catholic Youth Activists Released After 4-Year Sentences in Vietnam (Radio Free Asia)
• Hanoi frees two Catholic activists, four years in jail for "anti-government activities" (AsiaNews.it)