Authorities in Vietnam have stepped up harassment of unregistered Montagnard house churches, particularly in Dak Lak Province, according to Boat People SOS (BPSOS). The pressure escalated after several congregations marked the International Day Commemorating Victims of Violence on Religion or Belief on August 22. These believers have also refused to join the state-approved Evangelical Church of Vietnam-South, drawing further scrutiny. In a letter to the UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief, BPSOS detailed how local officials have increased monitoring and intimidation since August.

The harassment began on August 5, when police confronted Evangelist Y Hem Mlô of the Good News Mission Church in Krông Buk Village. After learning that 30 worshippers had gathered in his home, officers demanded the services cease, insisting only family members could legally worship there. Over the following weeks, police interrogated roughly 10 pastors and evangelists connected to the observance, pressuring them to end their house church activities. These incidents highlight ongoing violations of religious freedom in Vietnam, where independent churches continue to face government interference and intimidation.

SOURCE: ICC