Vietnam continues to be a dangerous place for some ethnic and religious minorities. CSW has continued to receive reports of beatings, harassment, forced eviction, extra-judicial killings and more against communities belonging to every major religion or belief in the country, while a new law that came into effect in January 2018 continues the system of mandatory registration of religious organisations and activities (e.g., churches and church events). Religious communities, lawyers and activists have criticised the law for interfering in the internal affairs of religious organisations, and using vague and ambiguous language regarding ‘national unity’ and ‘traditions’, which could be used to reject or hinder registration applications.

Sunday 21 April
‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’ Jeremiah 29:11 Pray this verse over Vietnam today.

Monday 22 April
Earlier this year, Vietnam’s human rights record was reviewed at the UN –pray that this international scrutiny will lead to increased protection of human rights, especially freedom of religion or belief.

Tuesday 23 April
Today, pray for God’s protection over ethnic minority Christians in the Central Highlands region, who often face increased discrimination because of their location in a remote area of the country. They are often denied access to government support (such as rice allowances or housing grants), and are
subject to beatings, torture and sexual abuse.

Wednesday 24 April
Though human rights lawyer Nguyen Van Dai was released into exile in Germany last year, he still views Vietnam as his home and is committed to keep on defending religious freedom there any way he  can. Please pray for Nguyen Van Dai to be equipped with the earthly and spiritual resources he needs.

Thursday 25 April
In addition to his role as a church leader, Pastor Nguyen Trung Ton is a human rights activist who has been fearless in his calls for freedom of religion or belief in Vietnam. His family and church have been repeatedly and violently attacked by local authorities and police. In April 2018, he was sentenced to 12 years in prison for ‘carrying out activities aimed at overthrowing the government’. Pray that he would be unconditionally released and exonerated of all charges.

Friday 26 April
Legal advisor and Hoa Hao Buddhist, Nguyen Bac Truyen, was sentenced at the same time as Pastor Nguyen Trung Ton. He has been a particular target for harassment from the authorities because he provides free legal assistance to religious communities facing persecution, to families of political prisoners and to victims of land grabs. He was sentenced to 11 years in prison – pray for justice in his case, and for protection for all of Vietnam’s human rights defenders who courageously speak up on behalf of others.

Saturday 27 April
Lord God, we lift the nation of Vietnam to you in prayer and ask that the recent reviews of Vietnam’s human rights record, and the recommendations arising from them, would lead to real and lasting change for ordinary citizens. Amen.