Congressman Blumenauer Resigns as Chair of U.S.-Vietnam Caucus in Response to Escalating Human Right

Washington, DC – Today Congressman Earl Blumenauer (D-Ore) resigned from his position as Chair of the U.S.-Vietnam Caucus in response to Vietnam’s escalating human rights violations. He also introduced a resolution (H.Res.447) today that condemns the recent convictions of pro-democracy activists. Congressman Blumenauer issued the following statement:

“I have been a consistent friend to Vietnam, but I cannot compromise my support for human rights. Since January, Vietnam has engaged in the largest crackdown on nonviolent pro-democracy activists in years. While I have always argued that we need to judge Vietnam on the progress it makes, it is clear to me that the Vietnamese government is headed in the wrong direction on democracy and human rights.

“Therefore, I am resigning as Chair of the U.S.-Vietnam Caucus. I am also introducing a resolution that condemns the recent convictions of pro-democracy activists and expresses Congress' concern over the future of the United States-Vietnam bilateral relationship.

“I hope that this will serve as a wake-up call to the Vietnamese government that a long-term relationship with the United States is dependent on their progress on human rights.”

Congressman Blumenauer is a member of the Ways and Means Committee, Budget Committee and Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global Warming. A former member of the House International Relations Committee, Congressman Blumenauer has actively worked to promote human rights