Story perspectives

Vietnam Arrests Writer, Publisher Over History Book, Facing 20 Years

7/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

Police arrested Nguyen Thanh Nam on June 27, detained Spiderum founder Tran Viet Anh and three Writers’ Association officials on July 11-12, and charged under Penal Code article 117, which carries 20 years imprisonment.
The Ministry of Security said the book distorts history and insults Ho Chi Minh and Vo Nguyen Giap, prompting suspension and a fine for the publisher.
Human Rights Watch director Elaine Pearson warned the arrests send a chilling message to Vietnamese writers and journalists.

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Story summary

Police arrested Nguyen Thanh Nam on June 27, detained Spiderum founder Tran Viet Anh and three Writers’ Association officials on July 11-12, and charged under Penal Code article 117, which carries 20 years imprisonment.
The Ministry of Security said the book distorts history and insults Ho Chi Minh and Vo Nguyen Giap, prompting suspension and a fine for the publisher.
Human Rights Watch director Elaine Pearson warned the arrests send a chilling message to Vietnamese writers and journalists.