I am deeply moved by the recent sentencing of Truong My Lan, a Vietnamese real estate tycoon, to death for her role in a financial fraud case. This harsh punishment is not only disproportionate but also highlights the urgent need to review and reform our judicial system. Death should never be a sentence for non-violent crimes such as fraud.

Vietnam is one of 56 countries worldwide that still retain capital punishment, with 35 offenses punishable by death including economic crimes like corruption and fraud (Source: Amnesty International). However, it's important to note that there is no conclusive evidence showing that the death penalty deters crime more effectively than other punishments.

The United Nations Human Rights Committee has repeatedly called on countries like Vietnam to restrict the use of capital punishment to only "the most serious crimes," which are understood to be those involving intentional killing (Source: UNHRC). Financial fraud does not meet this criterion.

We urge the Communist Party and judicial authorities in Vietnam to reconsider Truong My Lan's sentence and abolish the death penalty for financial fraud cases. We believe this would be an important step towards aligning with international human rights standards and ensuring justice is served proportionately. Please sign this petition if you agree that no one should face execution for non-violent offenses.