Nguyen Hung

The law, in force as of January 1, legislates heavy restrictions on worship, already alarming the Buddhist community. The "draconian" Chinese model becomes a reference point for the Communist government. Vietnamese priest: a "backward" measure that violates the "rights of citizens." Fears of a crisis in model of dialogue between the Holy See and Hanoi.

The country's Communist rulers, courts and police continue to arrest, unjustly try and convict people for alleged "anti-state" activities. At least 17 Christians have been arbitrarily detained recently, joining more than 70 political dissidents already in prison. In one case, an unfairly detained high school teacher is helping fellow prisoners, some on death row. Masses and prayer vigils are held in Ho Chi Minh City.

Beijing also relocates to increase profits by taking advantage of local labor. Experts warn Hanoi: danger of upsetting balance of trade between the two countries, as well as flooding of low-priced and poor quality goods. Risks to public health and the environment.

In operation since February 2011, the dam sits on a seismic zone. In the past month, 15 quakes have been recorded in the area. Cracks have appeared, and 30 litres of water are leaking each second. The company that built the plant says it is safe, but local residents are scared.

The initiative was supposed to be a "freedom march" to secure the release of 17 Catholics and Protestants in prison for more than a year because of their religion and opinion. Participants took advantage of the march to visit places symbolic of their faith that suffered persecution, including Hanoi's Thai Ha parish. Eventually, Communist authorities moved in to block the pilgrimage.

Mgr Michael Hoàng Đức Oanh's visit brings confidence and hope to villagers after local officials recently ordered the removal of Christian symbols and the destruction of the bell tower, replaced by a picture of Ho Chi Minh. The prelate calls on the faithful to remain steadfast in their faith through charity, despite persecution.

Fifty anti-China demonstrators are arrested. Gay and lesbian demonstration is allowed. Seventeen young Catholics and one Protestant have been arrested for defending freedom of worship. Justice minister pledges to recognise gay marriage.

This is the latest example of abuse of power and act of violence against Vietnamese Catholics. The goal is to force them to give up their land, which the authorities want to sell at a hefty price to rich businessmen. The secretary of the bishop Vinh attacks the government, whilst the bishop of Kontum "asks for equal treatment for Catholics" since "we are citizens too".

Coming from Vietnam's poorest regions, they have to pay up to US$ 2,000 to get a job. Employers exploit them to the bone. Hundreds of them are victims of the prostitution racket.

The GDP in the first quarter of 2012 recorded a growth of 4%. However, society threatens implosion along with families. Peak in abortions: Ho Chi Minh City the number is equal to births. Government and religion should work together to rebuild families and entire communities.

The authorities in Hiếu Đạo confiscated the building 30 years ago and have not returned it yet. Nevertheless, the number of believers keeps on growing through conversions. "We are convinced that God will return the altar to us," local bishop tells AsiaNews.

Since 2010, Đà Nẵng authorities want to knock down the Cồn Dầu parish church and cemetery to build a tourist resort. Police and officials raid the homes of families who have not yet left, threaten the vicar who must leave the parish within three months.