Vietnam to cut death penalty to four crimes in criminal code overhaul

Vietnam's Ministry of Public Security has drafted amendments to the Criminal Code that would remove the death penalty for six offences – riots, rape of persons under 16, illegal drug trade, crimes against humanity, war crimes and certain terrorism offences – leaving only four crimes – treason, murder, terrorism and unlawful production of narcotics – subject to capital punishment.

The proposal, slated for review by the National Assembly’s Standing Committee before an extraordinary session in early August, also calls for doubling monetary fines and setting a minimum fine of 5 million dong. Officials say the changes will improve Vietnam’s standing in international criminal‑justice cooperation and bring the law in line with United Nations human‑rights conventions.