Speaking at the Ministry of Public Security's conference on December 4 to review the 2025 amnesty and community reintegration efforts, Nguyen Hoa Binh, who also chairs the Amnesty Advisory Council, confirmed that the policy will remain a crucial part of the country’s legal and moral framework.

In 2025, which marks the 50th anniversary of the reunification of Vietnam (April 30, 1975) and the 80th anniversary of the founding of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam (September 2, 1945), the President issued two amnesty decisions.

Despite tight timelines from policy proposal to execution, relevant ministries, agencies, prisons, detention centers, and criminal enforcement units managed to complete all documentation and procedures with discipline, transparency, and fairness, ensuring the process followed legal criteria strictly.

This year, 22,086 individuals were granted early release - 22,079 inmates and 7 individuals whose sentences had been temporarily suspended. Their return to society coincided with the nation’s most meaningful holidays.

According to the Ministry of Public Security, only seven of the released individuals have reoffended, representing a mere 0.03% recidivism rate, while public security and order have been well maintained.

"Amnesty reflects seven major successes," Deputy PM Binh stated.

Firstly, it demonstrates the Party and State’s leniency policy, showing that amnesty remains a permanent and positive institution.

Secondly, the timing of the amnesty fostered public enthusiasm during key national celebrations and strengthened public trust in the government.

Thirdly, it encouraged prisoners to actively pursue good behavior in hopes of receiving clemency. Inmates across all facilities were reportedly motivated to comply with prison rules and participate in rehabilitation programs.

Fourth, the amnesty sent a strong societal message promoting forgiveness and social support for reformed individuals.

Fifth, authorities also ensured amnesty recipients could access vocational training, credit, and employment support - highlighting broader government compassion.

Sixth, it reduced pressure on the prison system while showcasing the Ministry of Public Security’s key role in effective inmate rehabilitation.

Seventh, the amnesty highlighted successful inter-agency collaboration between the Ministry of Public Security, Ministry of National Defense, Supreme People's Procuracy, Supreme People's Court, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and provincial governments.

"The success of this effort lies not just in the number of people pardoned, but in the thoroughness, legality, and humanity of the process," he said.

The Deputy PM emphasized that amnesty is deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture and is both a symbol of law enforcement and a gesture of compassion for those who genuinely repent and reform.

Over the past 80 years, hundreds of thousands of inmates have received Presidential amnesty. Since 2009 alone, more than 100,000 people have been pardoned and supported in returning to their communities.

Following the 2025 amnesty, 97–98% of recipients have successfully registered their residence in local communities.

Deputy PM Binh urged continued efforts in four key areas:

First, further publicize and internalize the Party’s policies and laws on amnesty, ensuring the process remains democratic, fair, transparent, and legally compliant. Public communication must be enhanced to counter misinformation and reinforce the public’s understanding and trust.

Second, provincial authorities and relevant agencies should proactively support reintegration by helping pardoned individuals settle back into their communities, in line with Government Decree No. 49 and Prime Ministerial Decision No. 22 on post-incarceration credit and support.

Local police must monitor and assist returning individuals, offering guidance and reassurance while combatting social stigma.

Third, the Ministry of Public Security, as the leading agency, should continue reviewing and proposing updates to current amnesty policies. Any legal amendments must align with the Criminal Code, Criminal Procedure Code, and the Law on Criminal Enforcement.

Recent legislative updates include the Law on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters, Law on Extradition, Law on Transfer of Sentenced Persons, and the Law on Temporary Detention and Community Sentencing.

Fourth, all detention and correctional facilities must improve management, education, and rehabilitation efforts. The government will promote smart prisons and digital governance to support accurate evaluations and fair amnesty decisions.

In conclusion, Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Hoa Binh praised the dedication of all ministries, agencies, and localities involved in the 2025 amnesty. He expressed confidence that these efforts will continue to reflect the country’s deep commitment to justice, humanity, and social harmony.

VGP