Vietnam to release nearly 10,000 prisoners under nationwide amnesty

Saturday 30 May 2026 - 16:00

Vietnam has announced plans to release nearly 10,000 prisoners in June as part of a nationwide amnesty that will also include foreign nationals, according to official statements.

The decision is part of a regular policy of prisoner pardons carried out by the Vietnamese government to mark major national political events, including recent legislative activities and the successful completion of key party-related milestones.

According to authorities, approximately 9,950 inmates are expected to be released under the current amnesty program. Officials stated that the measure reflects national traditions of clemency applied during significant political and institutional occasions. The announcement was made by senior representatives of the Ministry of Public Security.

Among those eligible for release are dozens of foreign prisoners of various nationalities. However, officials have not disclosed detailed information regarding their identities or countries of origin. The government confirmed that individuals convicted of serious crimes, including offenses related to terrorism or attempts to undermine the state, are excluded from the amnesty.

Vietnam regularly grants early release to prisoners as part of its legal and political framework. In previous years, tens of thousands of inmates have benefited from similar measures, particularly during major anniversaries and national celebrations.

Authorities indicated that the amnesty is also linked to recent electoral processes and political developments, including legislative elections that reaffirm the structure of the country’s political system under the ruling party.

Human rights observers and legal analysts note that Vietnam’s use of large-scale amnesties is a long-standing practice, often associated with political milestones and national holidays. While the government presents the policy as a humanitarian and social reintegration measure, it remains subject to international scrutiny regarding legal transparency and prison conditions.

The latest release is expected to take place in early June, continuing a tradition of periodic prisoner pardons that has seen more than 100,000 individuals released over the past decade.