Report Austrian Author Faces Fine Over Harassment Claims in Vietnam

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Photo courtesy of VN Express

 

In Hanoi, a gripping saga involving Austrian-Vietnamese author Dang Hoang Giang has reached a new chapter. Accused of spreading false allegations against Nha Nam's CEO, Nguyen Nhat Anh, Giang now faces an administrative fine amidst a heated debate on sexual harassment and defamation.

 

Giang’s Facebook posts, which accused Nhat Anh of sexual misconduct, were deemed by Hanoi police to show signs of criminal defamation. However, these accusations didn’t meet the threshold for prosecution. Instead, authorities have suggested a fine and proposed that Giang's work permit in Vietnam be revoked, a decision now pending with the Ministry of Home Affairs.

 

These allegations first emerged in April 2024, when Giang, a respected social activist and author, accused Nhat Anh of exhibiting sexually inappropriate behaviour towards Giang’s relative, who was employed at Nha Nam. Giang claimed his relative was left "frightened and distressed" by Nhat Anh’s actions. He initially raised the issue through an email to Nha Nam but took the grievances public via a Facebook post just ten days later, fuelling widespread controversy.

 

Nha Nam, established in 2005 and among Vietnam's leading publishers, responded robustly. The company described Giang's posts as inflicting "serious damage" both to the business and its director. They emphasised the need for "professional handling" of sexual harassment allegations, cautioning against conclusions drawn from subjective accounts. In light of these events, Nha Nam sought a formal investigation by the authorities.

 

Nhat Anh, amid growing scrutiny, issued a public apology on Nha Nam’s official fan page. He acknowledged demonstrating "affection and concern" towards female colleagues but firmly denied crossing any ethical lines. Despite the apology, he faced suspension, though he was later reinstated as director in November 2024.

 

Dang Hoang Giang, 60, is not only a prominent author but has also been an outspoken advocate for women’s and children’s rights in Vietnam. His notable works include "Frustration Does Not Make Us Innocent" and "The Black Ocean". VnExpress approached Giang for his comments on the situation but has yet to receive a reply.

 

The police’s stance is that Giang’s social media posts violated Vietnam's penal code, specifically laws against abusing democratic freedoms to infringe on others’ rights. Nonetheless, they concluded that the case did not justify criminal charges, but warranted administrative action.

 

The implications of this case are profound, touching on the delicate balance between addressing claims of misconduct and safeguarding against potential defamation. It sheds light on the evolving discussions surrounding workplace conduct, the power of social media in such disputes, and the legal frameworks governing freedom of expression.

 

As the situation unfolds, observers keenly anticipate the response from the Ministry of Home Affairs regarding Giang’s work permit status and the broader ramifications for artistic and social activism in Vietnam.

 

This incident will likely continue to resonate, especially within Vietnam’s vibrant literary and social circles, prompting further dialogue on professional ethics and freedom of speech.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from VN Express 2025-07-23