In a historic decision aimed at modernizing the legal framework and improving international relations, Vietnam has officially abolished the death penalty for eight specific crimes. The legislative change, ratified by Parliament, eliminates capital punishment for offenses including embezzlement, espionage, and state sabotage. Instead, the most severe penalties for these crimes will now be life imprisonment.
Vietnam Reforms Penal Code: Abolishes Death Penalty for Key Crimes
Vietnam Reforms Penal Code: Abolishes Death Penalty for Key Crimes
Vietnam's Parliament has unanimously approved significant changes to its penal code, aligning with international standards and enhancing its anti-corruption efforts.
This amendment notably impacts individuals like Truong My Lan, a well-known property tycoon who faced a death sentence for her involvement in a high-profile $12 billion fraud case. Nguyen Minh Duc, a police lieutenant general and deputy chair of the parliamentary committee, highlighted that the revised laws are crucial for Vietnam's ongoing fight against corruption, as the existence of the death penalty had hindered extradition agreements with several countries.
The recent legislative movements also reflect a broader shift in Vietnam’s approach to criminal justice. In 1985, the death penalty was applicable to 44 crimes, but that number has significantly dwindled to just 10 today, with hopes for total abolition in the future.
Countries with past contentious relations, such as Germany, have been reluctant to repatriate individuals wanted for crimes in Vietnam due to the death penalty, which has created diplomatic challenges. As Vietnam moves towards ratifying a new extradition law, the effort reflects its ambition to adhere more closely to global human rights standards.
While the exact number of individuals currently on death row remains undisclosed, prosecutors report that thousands have been sentenced to death in recent years. Observers note that the reform could lead to further changes in Vietnam's legal landscape in the long run.
The recent legislative movements also reflect a broader shift in Vietnam’s approach to criminal justice. In 1985, the death penalty was applicable to 44 crimes, but that number has significantly dwindled to just 10 today, with hopes for total abolition in the future.
Countries with past contentious relations, such as Germany, have been reluctant to repatriate individuals wanted for crimes in Vietnam due to the death penalty, which has created diplomatic challenges. As Vietnam moves towards ratifying a new extradition law, the effort reflects its ambition to adhere more closely to global human rights standards.
While the exact number of individuals currently on death row remains undisclosed, prosecutors report that thousands have been sentenced to death in recent years. Observers note that the reform could lead to further changes in Vietnam's legal landscape in the long run.
