Half a century after the war and following three decades of integration, Vietnam has seen economic growth but our overall development remains behind the advanced countries in the region. Without sustainable and comprehensive development, Vietnam is at risk of falling further behind.
Vital to Vietnam’s development, the Internet has the power to transform Vietnamese society; in many ways it already has. In the absence of an independent media, citizens have turned to the Internet to follow the news and debate national issues.
My name is Nguyễn Văn Tráng, a human rights defenderwanted by the Vietnamese government. As a democracy activist in Vietnam, I spent five years living in constant fear of being hunted down. I thought that fear would subside once I fled the country. I believed I would be safe—or at least safer. But I was wrong.
Y Krec has exhibited personal bravery in the face of horrific persecution. Not just against himself but against his community. He has been jailed multiple times simply for practicing his faith outside of government control.
Viet Tan is honored to present the 2024 Le Dinh Luong Human Rights Award to evangelist Y Krec Bya, a dedicated advocate for religious freedom and justice for Vietnam’s ethnic minorities for over two decades. The theme for this year’s award is Justice For The People, Equality For All Vietnamese.
Thank you having me here today. It is an honour to be here with you at the annual Le Dinh Luong Human Rights Award ceremony, where we reflect on the tireless work of human rights defenders.
