Vietnam has reaffirmed its firm commitment to combat illegal migration and human trafficking, while continuing to promote safe, legal, and orderly migration. Speaking during a press briefing on May 29, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ spokesperson Pham Thu Hang emphasized that the Vietnamese government is dedicated to protecting the rights and dignity of migrants while taking strong measures to prevent unlawful migration practices.
This response comes amid recent British media reports highlighting that Vietnamese nationals are still being smuggled into the United Kingdom in container trucks. According to Hang, Vietnamese authorities are aware of these reports and are actively verifying the information.
Vietnam has been working under the framework of the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration (GCM), with a national plan approved by the Prime Minister in March 2020. This plan aims to establish a transparent and lawful migration environment that respects the rights and safety of all migrants.
Hang stated that Vietnam has stepped up cooperation with other nations and international organizations, including Interpol, to dismantle human trafficking and smuggling networks. These efforts involve prevention, detection, and investigation activities in strict alignment with international law and standards.
“Vietnam stands ready to cooperate with countries and stakeholders within existing cooperation frameworks and international laws and practices, based on the principle of promptly safeguarding migrants’ legitimate rights and interests as well as their dignity,” Hang said.
The spokesperson also issued a warning to Vietnamese citizens, particularly those seeking work abroad, urging them not to fall for offers of “easy jobs with high pay.” She encouraged them to comply fully with all legal requirements when planning to work overseas.
Hang pointed out a concerning trend where some Vietnamese migrants who legally enter foreign countries for work later overstay their visas or shift to illegal employment. Others are lured by dishonest brokers and sent abroad without proper contracts, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation and forced labor.
In light of these risks, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is urging all Vietnamese seeking employment abroad to strictly follow legal guidelines and avoid illegal pathways that could lead to abuse.
Vietnam’s approach shows a balance between safeguarding national interests and protecting its citizens abroad. The government is committed to working with global partners to ensure that migration takes place in a safe and regulated manner while cracking down on human trafficking rings and fraudulent brokers.