Human rights: Vietnam, Kazakhstan, Guantanamo
Plenary Session Human rights − 18-04-2013 – 18:10
Freedom of expression in Vietnam
Parliament unanimously passed a resolution expressing deep concern at the conviction and harsh sentencing of journalists and bloggers in Vietnam and called on the Vietnamese government to amend or repeal legislation that restricts the right to freedom of the press and freedom of expression, including online channels. It also called for forced evictions to cease and for an end to religious persecution.
Human rights in Kazakhstan
In a resolution adopted by a large majority, Parliament strongly criticised the court decision to ban opposition parties, including the unregistered ´Alga!` party, as well as independent media actors. It also called for restrictions on the registration and practice of religion to be eased and for workers rights to form independent labour unions to be upheld.
The House reiterated its concern at the detention of opposition leaders, journalists and lawyers on the basis of trials which fall short of international standards and called again for the release of persons convicted on the basis of vague criminal charges, which could be considered to be politically motivated, including Vladimir Kozlov and Vadim Kurashim. MEPs also stressed that Aliya Turusbekova cannot be held responsible for the actions of third persons.
