LAW ON PREVENTION AND COMBATING TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS NUMBER 53/2024/QH15

LAW

PREVENTION AND COMBATING OF HUMAN TRAFFICKING

On the basis of the Constitution of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam;

The National Assembly enacts the Law on Prevention and Combating of Human Trafficking.

PART I

GENERAL PROVISIONS

Article 1. Scope of Regulation

This Law stipulates measures for prevention, detection, and handling of human trafficking and other acts violating laws on prevention and combating of human trafficking; reception, verification, identification, support, and protection of victims and persons under investigation to be identified as victims; state management and responsibilities of agencies, organizations, families, and individuals in preventing and combating human trafficking; international cooperation in prevention and combating of human trafficking.

Article 2. Interpretation of Terms

In this Law, the following terms shall be understood as follows:

1. Human Trafficking is an act of recruiting, transporting, harboring, transferring, or receiving a person with the purpose of obtaining money, property, or other material benefits, exploiting them sexually, forcing them into labor, removing organs from their body, or using them for other inhumane purposes through the use of force, threats of force, deception, or other means.

An act of recruiting, transporting, harboring, transferring, or receiving a person under 18 years old with the purpose of obtaining money, property, or other material benefits, except where otherwise provided by law, exploiting them sexually, forcing them into labor, removing organs from their body, or using them for other inhumane purposes is also considered human trafficking even if it does not involve the use of force, threats of force, deception, or other means.

2. Sexual Exploitation is compelling a victim to engage in prostitution, organizing a victim to engage in prostitution, bringing a victim to a brothel for prostitution, using a victim to produce pornographic books, newspapers, pictures, films, music, or other items, compelling a victim to perform pornographic shows, or compelling a victim to serve sexual needs due to dependency.

3. Forced Labor is using force, threats of force, or other means to compel a victim to work against their will.

4. Body Part is a portion of the body formed from various types of tissues to perform specific physiological functions.

5. Other Inhumane Purpose includes using a victim for experiments, compelling a victim to beg, marry against their will, give birth against their will, commit crimes, or use them for other cruel purposes.

6. Other Means includes taking advantage of marriage brokerage, job brokerage, study abroad counseling, adoption, or travel abroad to deceive; exploiting dependency situations, vulnerable situations, or desperate conditions of victims; exploiting positions of authority; kidnapping, intimidating mentally, poisoning victims; making victims use sleeping pills, anesthesia, alcohol, or other stimulants causing them to lose their ability to perceive or control their actions.

7. Victim is a person harmed by the act specified in Clause 1 of Article 2 of this Law and recognized by competent authorities.

8. Person Under Investigation to Be Identified as a Victim is a person showing signs of being harmed by the act specified in Clause 1 of Article 2 of this Law and currently being investigated by competent authorities.

9. Relative includes spouse, father, mother, father-in-law, mother-in-law, brother-in-law, sister-in-law, son, daughter, adopted son, adopted daughter, grandfather, grandmother, uncle, aunt, great-grandfather, great-grandmother, cousin, nephew, niece.

Article 3. Prohibited Acts

1. Human trafficking as defined in Clause 1 of Article 2 of this Law.

2. Agreement to sell a person who is still a fetus.

3. Forcing, brokering, or inciting others to commit the acts specified in Clauses 1 and 2 of Article 2 of this Law.

4. Threatening, retaliating against victims, persons under investigation to be identified as victims, their relatives, witnesses, informers, accusers, or those preventing the acts specified in this Article.

5. Sheltering, covering up, assisting, obstructing, interfering, failing to handle, or improperly handling acts of human trafficking.

6. Taking advantage of activities related to prevention and combating of human trafficking for personal gain or committing illegal acts.

7. Obstructing rescue, reception, verification, identification, protection, and support of victims and persons under investigation to be identified as victims.

8. Obstructing the discovery, reporting, accusation, informing, and handling of the acts specified in this Article.

9. Insulting, discriminating against, or treating differently victims and persons under investigation to be identified as victims.

10. Disclosing information about victims and persons under investigation to be identified as victims without their consent or that of their legal representatives, except where otherwise provided by law.

11. Impersonating a victim.

12. Other acts violating provisions of this Law.

Article 4. Principles for Preventing and Combating Trafficking in Persons

1. Respect and protect the rights and legitimate interests of victims and persons under investigation to be identified as victims; center on the victim and persons under investigation to be identified as victims; ensure gender equality.

2. Implement comprehensive preventive measures against trafficking in persons; detect, prevent, and strictly, promptly, and accurately handle acts prescribed in Article 3 of this Law.

3. Rescue, receive, verify, identify, protect, and support victims and persons under investigation to be identified as victims promptly and accurately; keep information confidential and refrain from insulting, discriminating against, or treating unfairly victims and persons under investigation to be identified as victims.

4. Ensure that victims and persons under investigation to be identified as victims can use languages they understand and enjoy support systems consistent with their religious beliefs within the framework of Vietnamese law, appropriate to their age, gender, health status, and personal characteristics.

5. Depending on specific circumstances and in accordance with relevant laws, victims who commit violations of the law as a direct result of trafficking may not be subject to administrative penalties or criminal prosecution for such acts.

6. Promote the role and responsibility of agencies, organizations, businesses, communities, families, and individuals in preventing and combating trafficking in persons.

7. Strengthen international cooperation, inter-sector coordination, actively participate in international organizations, treaties, and agreements on preventing and combating trafficking in persons based on compliance with the Constitution, consistent with Vietnamese law, and international law and customs.

Article 5. State Policy on Preventing and Combating Trafficking in Persons

1. Preventing and combating trafficking in persons is part of the national strategy for crime prevention and is integrated with other programs for economic and social development.

2. Encourage domestic and foreign agencies, organizations, and individuals to participate, cooperate, and sponsor activities to prevent and combat trafficking in persons and support victims and persons under investigation to be identified as victims; encourage domestic organizations and individuals to establish support centers for victims in accordance with the law.

3. Prioritize the application of science and technology, digital transformation in preventing and combating trafficking in persons; support training and enhancing the capacity of personnel involved in preventing and combating trafficking in persons.

4. Protect and support victims and persons under investigation to be identified as victims, agencies, organizations, businesses, and individuals participating in preventing and combating trafficking in persons in accordance with the law.

5. Reward agencies, organizations, and individuals with outstanding achievements in preventing and combating trafficking in persons; ensure benefits and policies for those involved in preventing and combating trafficking in persons who suffer losses to life, health, or property in accordance with the law.

6. Annually, the State allocates a budget for preventing and combating trafficking in persons, prioritizing areas inhabited by ethnic minorities, regions with particularly difficult socio-economic conditions, and areas where trafficking in persons is complex.

Article 6. Rights and obligations of victims and persons being identified as victims

1. Victims and persons being identified as victims have the following rights:

a) To request competent authorities to apply measures to protect themselves and their close relatives in accordance with this Law when they are harmed, threatened with harm, or at risk of harm to their lives, health, reputation, dignity, property, and other legitimate rights and interests related to preventing and combating trafficking in persons;

b) To be informed about their own legitimate rights and interests and preventive measures against trafficking in persons;

c) To enjoy support benefits as prescribed by this Law or to refuse such support;

d) To have their personal information, data on private life, personal secrets, family secrets, place of residence, workplace, and other information protected in accordance with the law;

đ) To be issued certificates or documents confirming victim status by competent authorities;

e) To be compensated for damages in accordance with the law;

g) To refuse the application of protective measures;

h) Other rights as prescribed by relevant laws;

2. Victims and persons being identified as victims have the following obligations:

a) To fully comply with the requirements of competent authorities during the implementation of protective and support measures;

b) To provide information related to violations of laws on preventing and combating trafficking in persons to competent authorities;

c) To fulfill the requirements of competent authorities in detecting, investigating, and handling cases of trafficking in persons;

d) Other obligations as prescribed by relevant laws;

Chapter II

PREVENTING TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS

Article 7. Information, Propaganda, and Education on Preventing and Combating Trafficking in Persons

1. Information, propaganda, and education on preventing and combating trafficking in persons aim to raise awareness and responsibility among agencies, organizations, businesses, communities, families, and individuals in preventing and combating trafficking in persons, enhancing vigilance, and actively participating in such efforts.

2. The content of information, propaganda, and education includes:

a) Policies and laws on preventing and combating trafficking in persons and related laws;

b) Objectives, methods, behaviors of trafficking in persons, and other prohibited acts as prescribed by this Law;

c) Skills in dealing with situations where there is suspicion of trafficking in persons;

d) Measures and experiences in preventing and combating trafficking in persons;

đ) Responsibilities of agencies, organizations, businesses, families, and individuals in preventing and combating trafficking in persons;

e) Fighting insults, discrimination, and unfair treatment against victims and persons being identified as victims;

g) Protective measures and support policies for victims and persons being identified as victims, and results of handling cases of trafficking in persons as prescribed by the law;

h) Other contents related to preventing and combating trafficking in persons;

3. Information, propaganda, and education shall be carried out through the following forms:

a) Face-to-face meetings and talks;

b) Providing materials;

c) Through mass media, grassroots information activities;

d) Through extracurricular activities at educational institutions and vocational training centers;

đ) Through literary, artistic, community social activities, and other cultural forms;

e) Using telecommunications networks, the Internet, computer networks;

g) Through conferences, seminars, training sessions, specialized lectures; direct legal education and dissemination;

h) Through organizing contests, communication campaigns;

i) Other appropriate forms;

4. Building a network of propagandists at the grassroots level, mobilizing the active participation of political-social organizations, encouraging the involvement of victims in information, propaganda, and education on preventing and combating trafficking in persons;

5. Information, propaganda, and education work needs to be strengthened for women, young people, children, students, people with disabilities, workers in industrial zones, employees in casino businesses, karaoke services, nightclubs, massage parlors, residents in border areas, islands, ethnic minority regions, economically disadvantaged areas, areas with many citizens marrying foreigners, working abroad, and areas with complex trafficking in persons situations.

Article 8. Counseling on Preventing Human Trafficking

Persons preparing to engage in labor relations, employment, marriage, international adoption, or other services that may be exploited for human trafficking shall be advised by agencies and organizations specified in Articles 19, 20, and 21 of this Law on the following contents:

1. Legal knowledge on preventing and combating human trafficking;

2. Vocational guidance, safe employment and migration; information on the purpose, methods, and acts of human trafficking, skills for handling situations where they become victims of human trafficking, and guidance on appropriate behavior when there is suspicion of human trafficking;

3. Information on the rights and obligations of victims, persons undergoing identification as victims, and guidance on how to exercise such rights and fulfill such obligations.

Article 9. Security and Public Order Management

Agencies and individuals with authority in security and public order management shall be responsible for performing the following tasks:

1. Managing residence registration, border control within their jurisdiction, and keeping track of population movements related to human trafficking activities;

2. Managing and supervising individuals previously convicted of human trafficking offenses and other individuals suspected of engaging in human trafficking according to the law;

3. Managing and effectively utilizing national population databases, identity card databases, specialized databases, electronic identification and authentication systems; criminal record and judicial history information for the prevention and combat of human trafficking;

4. Conducting patrols and controls at borders, border areas, ports of entry, at sea, and on islands to promptly detect and prevent human trafficking activities;

5. Strictly managing telecommunications networks, the Internet, and computer networks to prevent and combat human trafficking;

6. Managing the issuance of personal identification documents and travel documents; applying advanced science and technology in the production, issuance, and management of personal identification documents and travel documents to prevent and combat human trafficking;

7. Cooperating with competent authorities of neighboring countries in patrolling and controlling borders and ports of entry to prevent and combat human trafficking.

Article 10. Management of Business Activities and Services

The following business activities and services must be managed and inspected to detect, prevent, and address the exploitation for human trafficking:

a) Operating karaoke, nightclub, massage services; operating casinos; operating online games via telecommunications networks and the Internet; operating content information services via telecommunications networks and the Internet; operating employment services, labor leasing, study abroad counseling, sending Vietnamese workers to work abroad under contracts, recruiting foreign workers to work in Vietnam; operating travel and accommodation services;

b) Supporting marriages between Vietnamese citizens and foreigners, international adoption;

c) Other business activities and services that can be exploited for human trafficking.

2. Within their respective functions, tasks, and powers, Ministries and ministerial-level agencies shall be responsible for guiding, managing, and inspecting the business activities and services specified in Clause 1 of this Article to prevent and combat human trafficking.

Article 11. Management of Exit and Entry Activities

Authorities and persons with jurisdiction in managing exit and entry activities through their professional operations shall have the responsibility to proactively detect, prevent, and promptly handle acts of exploiting exit and entry activities, forging documents, or other means to commit human trafficking offenses.

Article 12. Exchange of Information for Managing Exit and Entry Activities

Authorities responsible for preventing and combating human trafficking crimes, state management agencies on exit and entry, Border Guard Forces, and Coast Guard shall have the responsibility to exchange and provide information about individuals previously convicted of human trafficking crimes and other individuals suspected of committing human trafficking offenses.

Article 13. Integration of Human Trafficking Prevention Content into Economic and Social Development Programs

The Government, ministries, sectors, and localities shall implement the integration of human trafficking prevention content into programs for preventing and combating criminal offenses, preventing social evils, vocational training, employment generation, poverty reduction, gender equality, child protection, programs for women's advancement, and other economic and social development programs.

Article 14. Rights and Responsibilities of Individuals Participating in Human Trafficking Prevention

1. Participate in human trafficking prevention activities.

2. Timely report, inform, and denounce acts stipulated in Article 3 of this Law.

3. Be protected and kept confidential when participating in human trafficking prevention and supporting victims according to the provisions of the law.

4. Be rewarded, and be guaranteed benefits and policies when participating in human trafficking prevention and supporting victims according to the provisions of the law.

Article 15. Responsibilities of Families Participating in Human Trafficking Prevention

1. Educate and remind family members to comply with the law on human trafficking prevention; provide information to family members about the purpose, methods, and acts of human trafficking and measures to prevent and combat human trafficking.

2. Coordinate with educational institutions, vocational education institutions, agencies, and organizations in preventing and combating human trafficking.

3. Care for and assist family members who are victims so that they can integrate back into family life and community.

4. Encourage, support, and create conditions for victims and individuals undergoing identification as victims within the family to cooperate with competent authorities in preventing and combating human trafficking.

Article 16. Responsibilities of Educational Institutions and Vocational Education Institutions Participating in Human Trafficking Prevention

1. Organize extracurricular propaganda and education on preventing and combating human trafficking suitable to the level of education and training.

2. Create favorable conditions for victims to study culture, learn trades, receive job counseling, and integrate into the community.

3. Coordinate with agencies, organizations, and families to implement measures to prevent and combat human trafficking.

Article 17. Responsibilities for Preventing Human Trafficking in Organizations, Enterprises, and Business and Service Establishments

Organizations, enterprises, and business and service establishments specified in Article 10 of this Law shall have the following responsibilities:

1. Commit to complying with the law on preventing and combating human trafficking.

2. Obtain information about service recipients and report to competent authorities upon request to prevent human trafficking.

3. Enter into written labor contracts with workers and register workers with local labor management agencies to prevent human trafficking.

4. Fully comply with the requirements of competent authorities regarding inspections and checks on preventing and combating human trafficking concerning the activities of organizations, enterprises, and establishments.

5. Cooperate fully and comply with the requirements of competent authorities when screening for signs of human trafficking among workers at organizations, enterprises, and establishments.

6. Proactively prevent and promptly report to competent authorities on acts showing signs of human trafficking.

Article 18. Responsibilities of news agencies and press organizations in preventing human trafficking

1. Timely and accurately disseminate information on policies and laws related to preventing and combating human trafficking; truthfully reflect the situation of human trafficking and efforts to prevent and combat it; highlight exemplary models and effective prevention and combat mechanisms.

2. Maintain confidentiality regarding information about victims, individuals under investigation for victim status, and persons under 18 years old accompanying them, except where otherwise provided by law.

Article 19. Responsibilities of the Vietnam Fatherland Front and its member organizations in preventing human trafficking

1. Monitor and provide social feedback in the development and implementation of policies and laws related to preventing and combating human trafficking as prescribed by law.

2. Promote compliance with laws on preventing and combating human trafficking and other relevant laws among the people, members, and affiliates; encourage the people, members, and affiliates to actively identify, report, and prevent prohibited acts as stipulated in this Law; participate in building networks of grassroots anti-human trafficking educators.

3. Propose necessary measures to competent state agencies to implement laws on preventing and combating human trafficking and other relevant laws; participate in preventing and combating human trafficking, caring for, supporting, and protecting victims and individuals under investigation for victim status.

4. Provide counseling and participate in counseling on preventing human trafficking as prescribed in Article 8 of this Law.

5. Participate in vocational training, job creation, and other support activities to help victims integrate into society.

6. Coordinate in preventing and combating human trafficking as prescribed by this Law.

Article 20. Responsibilities of the Vietnam Women's Union in preventing human trafficking

1. Promote education and mobilize women and children to enhance their awareness of complying with laws on preventing and combating human trafficking.

2. Participate in building networks of grassroots anti-human trafficking educators.

3. Fulfill responsibilities as prescribed in Article 19 of this Law within the scope of their functions and duties.

Article 21. Responsibilities of the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union in preventing human trafficking

1. Promote education and mobilize young people and children to enhance their awareness of complying with laws on preventing and combating human trafficking.

2. Participate in building networks of grassroots anti-human trafficking educators.

3. Fulfill responsibilities as prescribed in Article 19 of this Law within the scope of their functions and duties.

Chapter III

DETECTION AND HANDLING OF VIOLATIONS OF LAWS ON PREVENTING AND COMBATING HUMAN TRAFFICKING

ON PREVENTING AND COMBATING THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF PERSONS AS VICTIMS AND THEIR RELATIVES

Article 22. Reporting, informing, and recommending prosecution of violations

1. Individuals have the right and obligation to report, inform, and notify about acts prescribed in Article 3 of this Law to the police, border guards, maritime police, People's Committees at communes, wards, towns (hereinafter referred to collectively as People's Committees at commune level), competent authorities for handling complaints, national hotline for preventing and combating human trafficking, or any other agency or organization.

2. Agencies and organizations, upon discovering or receiving reports, notifications, or recommendations for prosecution of acts prescribed in Article 3 of this Law, shall be responsible for handling according to their authority or promptly notifying and recommending prosecution to competent authorities for legal action.

3. The Government shall prescribe regulations on the national hotline for preventing and combating human trafficking to receive reports and notifications about human trafficking acts.

Article 23. Discovery of Violations through Inspection and Audit Activities

1. Agencies and organizations shall regularly self-inspect their performance of functions and tasks; in case of discovering violations as stipulated in Article 3 of this Law, they shall promptly resolve them within their authority or propose handling according to the provisions of the law.

2. Agencies and organizations with authority through inspection and audit activities shall proactively discover, promptly resolve within their authority or propose handling of violations as stipulated in Article 3 of this Law.

Article 24. Discovery, Prevention, and Handling of Violations through Crime Prevention and Suppression Business Activities

Agencies, units, and persons authorized in the People's Public Security Force and the People's Armed Forces assigned the task of preventing and suppressing human trafficking through business activities shall have the following responsibilities:

1. To take the lead and coordinate with relevant agencies and units, apply investigative measures as prescribed by law to promptly discover, prevent, and handle violations as stipulated in Article 3 of this Law in the assigned areas;

2. To request agencies, organizations, and individuals to provide information and materials related to the discovery, prevention, and handling of human trafficking as prescribed by law;

3. To apply measures as prescribed by law to protect the subjects specified in Article 34 of this Law;

4. When there is evidence that a person has been trafficked, necessary measures shall be taken to rescue them.

Article 25. Handling of Reports on Criminal Acts, Recommendations for Prosecution of Trafficking Crimes, and Complaints about Violations of Anti-Trafficking Laws

1. The handling of reports on criminal acts and recommendations for prosecution of trafficking crimes shall be carried out in accordance with the provisions of the criminal procedure law.

2. The handling of complaints about violations of anti-trafficking laws shall be carried out in accordance with the provisions of the complaint law.

Article 26. Handling Violations

1. A person who commits an act as stipulated in Article 3 of this Law shall be subject to administrative sanctions or criminal prosecution depending on the nature and severity of the violation; if damage is caused, compensation must be provided according to the law.

2. A person who abuses their position or power to cover up, handle incorrectly, or fail to handle acts as stipulated in Article 3 of this Law shall be subject to disciplinary action, administrative sanctions, or criminal prosecution depending on the nature and severity of the violation; if damage is caused, compensation must be provided according to the law.

3. A person who impersonates a victim, in addition to being handled according to the law, must also repay the support funds received.

Chapter IV

RECEIVING, VERIFICATION, IDENTIFICATION, AND PROTECTION OF VICTIMS

Section 1 RECEIVING, VERIFICATION, AND IDENTIFICATION OF VICTIMS

Article 27. Receiving and Verifying Reports

1. Any person who believes they are a victim or a legal representative who believes the person they represent is a victim shall report to the People's Committee of the commune, public security agency, Border Guard, Coast Guard, or nearest organization. The public security agency, Border Guard, Coast Guard, or organization receiving the report shall immediately transport the person to the People's Committee of the commune where the organization has its headquarters. The People's Committee of the commune shall immediately notify the specialized agency on labor, war invalids, and social affairs at the district level. In cases of necessity, the People's Committee of the commune that receives the report shall implement support according to Chapter V of this Law.

2. Upon receiving notification from the People's Committee of the commune, the specialized agency on labor, war invalids, and social affairs at the district level shall immediately receive and support the victim and within three days must take the lead in coordinating with the Public Security Department of the county, district, town, city under province, or city directly under the central government (hereinafter referred to as the Public Security Department of the county) to verify initial information.

After verifying initial information, if there are no documents as stipulated in Clause 1, Article 33 of this Law, the specialized agency on labor, war invalids, and social affairs at the district level shall request the Public Security Department of the county to investigate the victim.

3. Within twenty days from the date of receipt of the request from the specialized agency on labor, war invalids, and social affairs at the district level, the Public Security Department of the county shall be responsible for investigating the victim and replying in writing to the requesting agency.

For complex cases, the time limit for investigating the victim shall not exceed two months; if the victim cannot be identified within two months, the investigation period may be extended, but the total investigation period shall not exceed four months.

4. Immediately upon completion of the investigation or at the end of the period stipulated in Clause 3 of this Article, the Public Security Department of the county shall issue one of the documents as stipulated in Point a, Clause 1, Article 33 of this Law.

5. After receiving the report, the specialized agency on labor, war invalids, and social affairs at the district level shall provide support to the victim and the person undergoing identification as a victim according to Chapter V of this Law. If they wish to return to their place of residence, travel expenses will be supported; if they need health care, psychological care, or have no place of residence and wish to stay, the specialized agency on labor, war invalids, and social affairs at the district level shall transfer them to a social assistance facility or a victim support facility.

For victims and persons undergoing identification as victims who are children, the specialized agency on labor, war invalids, and social affairs at the district level shall inform relatives to pick them up or arrange for someone to bring them back to the place of residence of their relatives; if there is no place of refuge or there is evidence that they may be in danger when brought back to the place of residence of their relatives, they shall be transferred to a social assistance facility or a victim support facility.

6. The Government shall provide detailed regulations for this Article.

Article 28. Reception and verification of rescued victims

1. Agencies, units, and persons authorized in the People's Public Security Force and the People's Armed Forces who have rescued victims shall provide first aid and emergency care if they are injured or have suffered harm to their health, support essential needs, provide translation services, and immediately transport them to the nearest specialized agency on labor, war invalids, and social affairs at the district level.

The rescue authority is responsible for verifying and issuing the confirmation certificate in accordance with point a, Clause 1, Article 33 of this Law to the rescued person; in cases where there is not yet sufficient basis to determine the victim, after receiving the information, the specialized agency on labor - war invalids and social affairs at the district level shall request the district police to conduct an investigation of the victim; the verification period and issuance of the confirmation certificate shall be carried out in accordance with Clause 3 and Clause 4, Article 27 of this Law.

2. After receiving the information, the specialized agency on labor - war invalids and social affairs at the district level shall provide support to the rescued person in accordance with Clause 5, Article 27 and Chapter V of this Law.

3. The Government shall provide detailed regulations on this Article.

Article 29. Rescue, reception, and verification of victims residing abroad

1. The diplomatic mission, consular mission, or other agency authorized to perform consular functions of Vietnam abroad (hereinafter referred to collectively as the Vietnamese representative agency abroad), when receiving information and documents about a person being a victim from the competent authority of a foreign country, international organization, or the competent authority of Vietnam within the country, from a person who reports themselves as a victim, or from a person who knows about the matter and reports it, shall carry out the following tasks:

a) In cases where that person has not been rescued, immediately notify the competent authority of the host country to cooperate in checking, verifying, and rescuing.

b) In cases where the person reports themselves as a victim or has already been rescued, cooperate with the competent authority of the host country and the competent authority of Vietnam within the country to conduct checks, verify information, collect relevant documents, provide support in accordance with Chapter V of this Law, and issue one of the documents or materials as prescribed in Clause 1, Article 33 of this Law.

2. Immediately upon receiving the verification request from the Vietnamese representative agency abroad as stipulated in point b, Clause 1 of this Article, the competent authority within Vietnam shall be responsible for organizing the verification, replying to the Vietnamese representative agency abroad, and cooperating in issuing necessary documents and procedures for repatriation.

3. In cases where there is not yet sufficient basis to issue one of the documents or materials as prescribed in Clause 1, Article 33 of this Law, the Vietnamese representative agency abroad shall implement protective measures for citizens in accordance with the law and request the competent authority within the country to verify and issue one of the documents prescribed in point a, Clause 1, Article 33 of this Law; the verification period shall be carried out in accordance with Clause 3, Article 27 of this Law.

4. In cases where international agreements provide for direct information exchange and cooperation in preventing and combating human trafficking between the competent authorities of foreign countries, international organizations, and the competent authorities of Vietnam, such agreements shall be implemented.

5. The Government shall provide detailed regulations on this matter.

Article 30. Reception and verification of victims returning from abroad

1. The reception, verification, and support of victims returning from abroad through Vietnamese representative offices abroad shall be carried out as follows:

a) The Vietnamese representative agency abroad receives and processes information and documents about victims and cooperates with the competent authority of the Ministry of Public Security in verifying the identity of the victim, issuing necessary documents, and handling repatriation procedures;

b) The competent authority of the Ministry of Public Security and the Ministry of National Defense shall be responsible for receiving; conducting verification and issuing one of the documents or materials confirming the victim as requested by the Vietnamese representative agency abroad as stipulated in Clause 3, Article 29 of this Law; providing essential needs support, translation support, and medical support if necessary, and immediately transferring them to the specialized agency on labor - war invalids and social affairs at the district level where they were received to provide support in accordance with Chapter V of this Law.

If they wish to return to their place of residence, they will be supported with travel expenses; if they need health care, psychological care, or have no place of residence but wish to stay, they will be transferred to a social assistance facility or a victim support facility.

For child victims, the specialized agency on labor - war invalids and social affairs at the district level shall be responsible for notifying relatives to come and receive them or arranging someone to take them back to the place of residence of their relatives; in cases where there is no place of refuge or there is evidence suggesting that they may be in danger when taken back to the place of residence of their relatives, they shall be transferred to a social assistance facility or a victim support facility.

2. The reception of persons returning to Vietnam under bilateral international agreements related to preventing and combating trafficking in persons shall be carried out in accordance with those agreements.

The agency that has received them shall be responsible for verifying according to the time limit specified in Clause 3, Article 27 and issuing one of the documents or materials as prescribed in Clause 1, Article 33 of this Law; providing essential needs support, medical support, and translation support if necessary, and immediately transferring them to the specialized agency on labor - war invalids and social affairs at the district level where they were received to provide support in accordance with Chapter V of this Law.

3. The Government shall provide detailed regulations on this Article.

Article 31. Receiving, verifying, rescuing and repatriating foreign nationals trafficked in Vietnam

1. Upon receiving information and documents about foreigners trafficked in Vietnam from the competent authority of a foreign country, international organization, or domestic agency or organization, or from a person who knows about the matter and reports it, the agency or organization that has received the information and documents shall immediately report to the provincial-level police (hereinafter referred to collectively as the provincial-level police) where the foreigner is present for verification and rescue.

In cases where through operational activities, it is discovered that a foreigner shows signs of being trafficked in Vietnam or a foreigner reports themselves as a victim of trafficking, the unit, agency, or individual with authority in the People's Public Security Force or the People's Armed Forces shall proceed with rescue and verification.

When there is sufficient basis to determine the rescued person or the person who reported themselves as a victim, the agency that has rescued or received them shall report and issue the confirmation certificate as prescribed in Clause 1, Article 33 of this Law before transferring them.

2. After receiving or rescuing a foreigner, the authority prescribed in Clause 1 of this Article shall provide first aid or emergency care if they are injured or have suffered harm to their health; provide essential needs support, translation support, and transfer them to the specialized agency on labor - war invalids and social affairs at the district level where the receiving agency has its headquarters or where they were rescued.

3. After receiving foreign nationals who have been trafficked in Vietnam, the specialized agency on labor - war invalids and social affairs at the district level shall provide support in accordance with Chapter V of this Law and notify the specialized agency on foreign affairs at the provincial level and the Provincial Immigration Management Department of the Public Security to carry out tasks for repatriation to their home country or place of habitual residence.

4. Upon receipt of a diplomatic note from the representative office of the foreign country where the victim is a citizen or resident, agreeing to accept the return of the victim along with valid travel documents issued to the victim, the competent authority of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs shall coordinate with the foreign side on matters related to the repatriation of the victim, then notify in writing and transfer the victim's travel documents to the competent authority of the Ministry of Public Security.

5. The competent authority of the Ministry of Public Security shall be responsible for issuing visas and temporary residence certificates for the victim, notifying the plan for repatriating the victim to the Provincial Immigration Management Department of the Public Security, the specialized agency on labor - war invalids and social affairs at the provincial level where the victim is being held, the airport border gate police or border guard station where the victim will depart, the representative office of the foreign country where the victim is a citizen or resident, and relevant international organizations to cooperate in repatriating the victim.

6. The specialized agency on labor - war invalids and social affairs at the provincial level where the victim is being held shall direct social assistance facilities or victim support facilities to transport the victim to the border gate and coordinate with relevant agencies to implement the repatriation of the victim.

7. The Government shall provide detailed regulations on this matter.

Section 2 BASIS FOR IDENTIFYING VICTIMS; DOCUMENTS

DOCUMENTS TO CONFIRM VICTIM STATUS

Article 32. Basis for identifying victims

1. Identification of victims is based on the following materials and evidence:

a) Materials and evidence provided by investigative agencies;

b) Information and materials provided by rescue agencies;

c) Information and materials provided by Vietnamese representative offices abroad;

d) Information and materials provided by other domestic agencies and organizations;

đ) Materials provided by authorized foreign agencies and organizations;

e) Statements and materials provided by individuals undergoing identification as victims or their relatives;

g) Statements and materials provided by individuals committing acts of human trafficking;

h) Statements and materials provided by other victims or individuals aware of the incident;

i) Other lawful materials and evidence.

2. In cases where the competent authority relies on the provisions of Clause 1 of this Article but has not yet proven whether an individual is a victim, after verifying their background, absence period from their place of residence, and reasons for absence consistent with their statements about being trafficked, the following signs shall be considered to determine if they are a victim:

a) They were discovered and rescued together with other victims;

b) They lived together with victims in the location where the perpetrators of human trafficking detained and managed them and were treated like these victims;

c) They exhibit signs of sexual exploitation, forced labor, organ removal, cruel treatment, injuries, fear, panic, depression, illness, or other inhumane acts as defined in Clause 5 of Article 2 of this Law, confirmed by authorized health agencies;

d) Their relatives reported their disappearance during their absence from their place of residence;

đ) Other lawful bases that reasonably suggest that they are victims.

Article 33. Documents and materials confirming victims and authorities issuing such documents and materials

1. Documents and materials confirming victims include the following:

a) A certificate confirming that the person is a victim or a certificate confirming that the person is not a victim;

b) Documents and materials proving that the person is a victim issued by foreign authorities and legalized by Vietnamese diplomatic missions abroad or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Vietnam.

2. The competent authorities issuing certificates as stipulated in Clause 1 of this Article include:

a) Police at district level as prescribed in Clause 4 of Article 27 and Clause 1 of Article 28 of this Law;

b) Rescue and reception agencies as prescribed from Article 28 to Article 31 of this Law;

c) Investigation agencies, agencies assigned to conduct certain investigative activities, People's Procuracy, People's Court;

d) Vietnamese diplomatic missions abroad as prescribed in Clause 1 of Article 29 of this Law.

3. In cases where a certificate has been issued as prescribed in Point a of Clause 1 of this Article but later the competent authority as prescribed in Clause 2 of this Article proves that the issuance of the certificate was incorrect, they shall be responsible for revoking and reissuing the certificate.

Section 3 PROTECTION OF VICTIMS, PERSONS UNDERGOING THE PROCESS OF BEING IDENTIFIED AS VICTIMS AND THEIR RELATIVESREGARDING PERSONS AS VICTIMS AND THEIR RELATIVES

Article 34. Conditions and subjects eligible for protection

The following persons, if they are harmed, threatened with harm, or at risk of being harmed to their lives, health, reputation, dignity, property, and other legitimate rights and interests due to their involvement in human trafficking cases, shall be entitled to apply the protective measures provided for in Article 35 of this Law depending on the circumstances:

1. Victims, persons undergoing the process of being identified as victims, and minors under 18 years old accompanying them;

2. Relatives of victims and persons undergoing the process of being identified as victims;

3. Individuals participating in preventing and combating human trafficking or supporting victims.

Article 35. Protective Measures and Competent Authorities to Apply Such Measures

1. Where the subject specified in Article 34 of this Law is a complainant, protective measures for them shall be applied in accordance with the laws on complaints.

2. Where the subject specified in Article 34 of this Law is a participant in criminal proceedings, protective measures for them shall be applied in accordance with the laws on criminal procedure.

3. For the subjects specified in Article 34 of this Law who do not fall within the categories prescribed in Clauses 1 and 2 of this Article, the following protective measures shall be applied:

a) Arranging temporary shelter when there is a risk of harm to their lives or health;

b) Preventive and deterrent measures against acts of harm, threats of harm to their lives, health, reputation, dignity, property, and other legitimate rights and interests as prescribed by law.

4. Persons receiving protection who refuse or fail to comply fully with the protective measures applied by competent authorities, organizations, or individuals shall bear responsibility for their own safety and that of their relatives.

If a person receiving protection refuses protective measures due to threats or coercion, competent authorities, organizations, or individuals shall still apply protective measures.

5. Competent authorities and units in the People's Public Security Force, the People's Army, and other competent authorities and units shall apply protective measures in accordance with the law.

6. The Government shall provide detailed regulations for Clauses 3, 4, and 5 of this Article.

Article 36. Protection of Information about Victims and Accompanying Minors Under 18 Years Old

1. Authorities, organizations, and individuals shall be responsible for keeping confidential the place of residence, workplace, educational institution, personal life information, individual secrets, and family secrets of victims, persons under investigation to determine victim status, and accompanying minors under 18 years old, except where otherwise provided by law.

2. The court shall consider and decide on closed proceedings for human trafficking cases at the request of the victim or the lawful representative of the victim in accordance with the provisions of the law.

Chapter V

SUPPORT FOR VICTIMS AND PERSONS UNDER INVESTIGATION TO DETERMINE VICTIM STATUS

Article 37. Object and Support Regime

1. Vietnamese citizens and stateless persons permanently residing in Vietnam who are victims shall enjoy the following support regimes:

a) Essential needs support;

b) Medical support;

c) Translation support;

d) Legal support;

đ) Legal aid;

e) Travel cost support;

g) Psychological support;

h) Cultural education support;

i) Vocational training support, counseling, and assistance to secure employment;

k) Initial hardship allowance and loan support.

2. Vietnamese citizens and stateless persons permanently residing in Vietnam who are accompanying minors under 18 years old shall enjoy the support regimes specified in points a to h of Clause 1 of this Article.

3. Vietnamese citizens and accompanying minors under 18 years old who are outside the country and are under investigation to determine victim status shall enjoy the support regimes specified in points a to d of Clause 1 of this Article.

Vietnamese citizens and stateless persons permanently residing in Vietnam and accompanying minors under 18 years old who are within the country and are under investigation to determine victim status shall enjoy the support regimes specified in points a to g of Clause 1 of this Article.

4. Foreign nationals who are victims of human trafficking in Vietnam shall, depending on the circumstances, enjoy the support regimes specified in points a, b, c, d, đ, and g of Clause 1 of this Article.

5. The Government shall provide detailed regulations on this matter.

Article 38. Essential Needs Support

In necessary cases, victims, persons under investigation to determine victim status, and accompanying minors under 18 years old shall be provided temporary accommodation and supported with food, clothing, and other essential personal items based on actual conditions and characteristics such as religious beliefs, age, gender, health status, and personal traits.

Article 39. Medical Support

1. Victims, persons under investigation to determine victim status, and accompanying minors under 18 years old shall be provided health check-ups upon reception, emergency care if they suffer injuries or health damage; during their stay at social welfare institutions or victim support facilities, if they require care to recover their health, they shall be supported with medical examination and treatment costs.

2. Victims without health insurance shall be supported with health insurance contributions for the first year from the date they are recognized as victims by the competent authority.

Article 40. Translation Support

1. Persons under investigation to determine victim status and accompanying minors under 18 years old who do not know or understand Vietnamese shall be supported with translation costs during the process of verifying victim status.

2. Victims and accompanying minors under 18 years old who do not know or understand Vietnamese shall be supported with translation costs during their stay at social welfare institutions or victim support facilities.

Article 41. Legal Support and Legal Aid

1. Victims, persons undergoing identification as victims, and accompanying persons under 18 years old shall be provided with legal support in the form of counseling to prevent being sold again, registration procedures for residence, household registration, identity card issuance, and receiving support benefits.

2. Victims, persons undergoing identification as victims, and accompanying persons under 18 years old shall be provided with legal aid in accordance with the forms prescribed by laws on legal aid concerning matters related to human trafficking cases.

Article 42. Travel Cost Support

Victims, persons undergoing identification as victims, and accompanying persons under 18 years old who wish to return to their place of residence shall be supported with travel costs for domestic transportation and meals during the journey.

Article 43. Psychological Support

Victims, persons undergoing identification as victims, and accompanying persons under 18 years old shall be provided with psychological support to stabilize their mental state within a period not exceeding three months.

Article 44. Cultural Education Support, Vocational Training Support, Counseling, and Creating Conditions for Employment

1. Victims under 18 years old and accompanying persons under 18 years old, if continuing their education, shall be supported with tuition fees, textbook purchase costs, and learning supplies for the first year and the subsequent year following the confirmation of victim status by the competent authority.

2. Victims returning to their place of residence shall be considered for vocational training support, counseling, and conditions creation for stable employment.

Article 45. Initial Hardship Allowance and Loan Support

1. Victims returning to their place of residence shall be supported with a one-time initial hardship allowance.

2. Victims returning to their place of residence who need loans for production and business activities shall be considered for preferential credit policies from the Social Policy Bank in accordance with the law.

Article 46. Agencies and Organizations Implementing Support

1. Vietnamese representative agencies abroad have implemented essential needs support, interpreting support, medical support, and legal support as stipulated by this Law and relevant laws.

2. Public Security agencies, Border Guard forces, and Coast Guard have implemented rescue operations, essential needs support, interpreting support, and medical support.

3. People's Committees at the commune level have implemented essential needs support, medical support, and legal support.

4. County-level specialized agencies on labor, war invalids, and social affairs implement travel cost support, interpreting support, medical support, psychological support, cultural education support, vocational training support, counseling, and loan support.

5. Social assistance facilities and victim support facilities implement essential needs support, psychological support, medical support, interpreting support, cultural education support, vocational training support, and job placement counseling during the stay at social assistance facilities and victim support facilities.

6. State Legal Aid Centers and organizations participating in legal aid provide legal aid.

7. The Government shall provide detailed regulations on this matter.

Article 47. Social Assistance Facilities and Victim Support Facilities

1. Public social assistance facilities shall perform the following tasks in supporting victims, persons undergoing identification as victims, and accompanying persons under 18 years old:

a) Reception and accommodation arrangement; establishment of management files during the stay at social assistance facilities;

b) Implementation of support measures as prescribed in Clause 5 of Article 46 of this Law;

c) Life skills education;

d) Assessment of victims' community integration capacity, provision of information on policies, benefits, and support for victims in the community;

đ) Provision of necessary information to competent authorities for combating human trafficking;

e) Coordination with competent authorities in verifying victims;

g) Coordination with legal aid centers to provide legal aid.

2. Victim support facilities established by Vietnamese organizations and individuals shall participate in performing the tasks prescribed in Clause 1 of this Article in accordance with their establishment permits; their establishment and operation shall not use state budget funds.

3. Other social assistance facilities established by Vietnamese organizations and individuals, not using state budget funds, may participate in supporting victims, persons undergoing identification as victims, and accompanying persons under 18 years old in accordance with Clause 1 of this Article and operate according to their operating licenses.

4. The Government shall provide detailed regulations on Clause 2 and Clause 3 of this Article.

Chapter VI

STATE MANAGEMENT OF PREVENTION AND COMBATING HUMAN TRAFFICKING

Article 48. Contents of State Management on Preventing and Combating Trafficking in Persons

1. Issuing and implementing policies and laws on preventing and combating trafficking in persons.

2. Providing information, propaganda, dissemination, and legal education on preventing and combating trafficking in persons.

3. Conducting statistical work and reporting on preventing and combating trafficking in persons.

4. Training and enhancing the capacity of personnel involved in preventing and combating trafficking in persons.

5. Conducting scientific research and international cooperation on preventing and combating trafficking in persons.

6. Awarding agencies, organizations, and individuals with achievements in preventing and combating trafficking in persons.

7. Inspecting, supervising, handling complaints and denunciations, and dealing with violations of laws on preventing and combating trafficking in persons.

Article 49. Responsibilities for State Management on Preventing and Combating Trafficking in Persons

1. The Government shall uniformly manage state administration on preventing and combating trafficking in persons.

2. The Ministry of Public Security shall be responsible for assisting the Government in managing state administration on preventing and combating trafficking in persons.

3. Ministries, ministerial-level agencies, within their respective tasks and authorities, shall have the responsibility to coordinate with the Ministry of Public Security in managing state administration on preventing and combating trafficking in persons, and perform tasks and exercise powers as prescribed by this Law and other relevant laws.

4. People's Committees at all levels, within their respective tasks and authorities, shall have the responsibility to manage state administration on preventing and combating trafficking in persons locally, and perform tasks and exercise powers as prescribed by this Law.

Article 50. Responsibilities of the Ministry of Public Security

1. In performing state management on preventing and combating trafficking in persons, the Ministry of Public Security shall have the following responsibilities:

a) Issuing policies and laws on preventing and combating trafficking in persons within its authority or submitting them to competent authorities for issuance;

b) Proposing to the Government for signing, joining international treaties, or implementing international cooperation activities related to preventing and combating trafficking in persons;

c) Providing information, propaganda, dissemination, and legal education on preventing and combating trafficking in persons as prescribed by law;

d) Leading and coordinating with relevant ministries, sectors, and provincial People's Committees to implement policies and laws on preventing and combating trafficking in persons;

đ) Leading and coordinating with relevant agencies and organizations to issue and implement regulations on training and enhancement; summarizing practical experiences, expanding models, and awarding individuals and groups with achievements in preventing and combating trafficking in persons;

e) Inspecting and supervising the work of preventing and combating trafficking in persons;

g) Implementing international cooperation in preventing and combating trafficking in persons within its authority;

h) Implementing statistical reporting systems on preventing and combating trafficking in persons; assisting the Government in preparing reports to submit to the National Assembly on the work of preventing and combating trafficking in persons integrated into the annual report of the Government on crime prevention and law enforcement.

2. In anti-trafficking efforts, the Ministry of Public Security shall have the following responsibilities:

a) Organizing and deploying forces directly to carry out or coordinate in carrying out anti-trafficking tasks;

b) Implementing security and public order management to prevent trafficking in persons;

c) Directing public security organs at all levels to perform tasks and exercise powers on preventing and combating trafficking in persons as prescribed by this Law;

d) Building mass movements to participate in preventing, detecting, and fighting human trafficking crimes, protecting national security and social order and safety;

đ) Implementing the application of information technology in preventing and combating trafficking in persons linked to the national population database, identity card database, and other specialized databases.

Article 51. Responsibilities of the Ministry of National Defense

1. Coordinate with relevant ministries, sectors, and levels of People's Committees to organize propaganda and mobilize the masses in border areas, at sea, on islands, and at ports within their jurisdiction to participate in activities to prevent and combat human trafficking as prescribed by law.

2. Direct Border Guard forces and Coast Guard to perform tasks to prevent and combat human trafficking in border areas, at sea, on islands, and at ports within their jurisdiction as prescribed by law; receive, support, and protect victims and persons being identified as victims according to this Law.

3. Implement security and public order management in border areas, at sea, on islands, and at ports within their jurisdiction as prescribed by law to prevent human trafficking.

4. Carry out international cooperation in preventing and combating human trafficking within their authority.

Article 52. Responsibilities of the Ministry of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs

1. Issue by its authority or submit to competent authorities for issuance of legal normative documents on support policies for victims and persons currently being identified as victims.

2. Guide, manage, inspect, and audit activities related to labor service provision, labor leasing, sending Vietnamese workers abroad under contracts, and recruiting foreign workers in Vietnam to prevent the abuse of these activities for human trafficking; guide the screening of signs of human trafficking among workers.

3. Guide, manage, inspect, and audit work related to supporting victims and persons being identified as victims.

4. Direct the integration of anti-human trafficking content into social evil prevention programs, vocational training, employment resolution, poverty reduction, gender equality, child protection, women's advancement programs, and other economic and social development programs; implement information reception, reporting, and accusation work regarding human trafficking to the national hotline for preventing and combating human trafficking.

5. Coordinate with the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Education and Training to direct medical support, psychological support, and cultural education support.

6. Carry out international cooperation in preventing and combating human trafficking within their authority.

Article 53. Responsibilities of the Ministry of Health

1. Take the lead in coordinating with the Ministry of Finance to draft and submit to competent authorities for promulgation normative legal documents on health support policies and insurance contributions as stipulated in Article 39 of this Law.

2. Direct and guide healthcare facilities to cooperate with social assistance institutions and victim support institutions in providing medical support to victims and persons being identified as victims.

3. Provide guidance on medical treatment and psychological support.

4. Take the lead in coordinating with the Ministry of Public Security to guide medical examination and treatment facilities in detecting, reporting, and providing information on cases suspected of human trafficking, organ trafficking, and pre-natal human trafficking.

Article 54. Responsibilities of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

1. Direct and guide authorized units and overseas Vietnamese representative offices to implement anti-human trafficking work and carry out protective work for victims and persons being identified as victims who have been trafficked abroad and are Vietnamese citizens; coordinate with Vietnamese and foreign competent authorities to rescue, receive, identify, and repatriate Vietnamese victims and persons being identified as victims.

2. Direct coordination with the representative offices of relevant countries and Vietnamese competent authorities to repatriate foreign victims.

3. Direct research on measures to prevent and combat human trafficking in formulating policies on international migration within their authority.

4. Carry out international cooperation in preventing and combating human trafficking within their authority.

Article 55. Responsibilities of the Ministry of Justice

1. Coordinate with the Ministry of Public Security and relevant agencies in the development, improvement, and monitoring of the implementation of laws on preventing and combating trafficking in persons.

2. Guide, manage, inspect, and audit activities related to the registration of international marriages and adoption registration to prevent the exploitation of these activities for trafficking in persons.

3. Manage and guide state legal aid centers and organizations participating in legal aid to provide legal assistance to victims and individuals undergoing identification as victims in accordance with the provisions of the legal aid law.

4. Carry out international cooperation in preventing and combating human trafficking within their authority.

Article 56. Responsibilities of People's Committees at all levels

1. Within their respective duties and authorities, People's Committees at all levels shall have the following responsibilities:

a) Implement information dissemination and propaganda on preventing and combating trafficking in persons.

b) Integrate content on preventing and combating trafficking in persons into economic and social development programs.

c) Organize the implementation of work to prevent and combat trafficking in persons.

d) Allocate budget funds for work to prevent and combat trafficking in persons.

đ) Timely and strictly handle violations of laws on preventing and combating trafficking in persons.

e) Organize the implementation of security and public order management work to prevent and combat trafficking in persons.

g) Issue licenses for the establishment of victim support facilities and issue operating permits for other social assistance facilities to carry out support activities.

2. In addition to implementing the provisions of Clause 1 of this Article, People's Committees at the commune level also have the following responsibilities:

a) Chair and coordinate with the Vietnam Fatherland Front Committee at the same level and its member organizations to organize and create conditions for counseling activities on preventing and combating trafficking in persons at the grassroots level.

b) Receive and implement support for victims, individuals undergoing identification as victims, and minors under 18 years old accompanying them in accordance with this Law.

c) Create conditions for victims to integrate into the community.

3. The Government shall specify detailed regulations regarding point g of Clause 1 of this Article.

Chapter VII

INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION IN PREVENTING AND COMBATING TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS

Article 57. Principles of International Cooperation in Preventing and Combating Trafficking in Persons

The Socialist Republic of Vietnam implements international cooperation in preventing and combating trafficking in persons based on respecting independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, non-interference in internal affairs, equality, and mutual benefit.

Article 58. Implementation of International Cooperation in Preventing and Combating Trafficking in Persons

1. Based on international treaties to which the Socialist Republic of Vietnam is a party, the provisions of this Law, and other relevant legal provisions, and international agreements signed, competent authorities of Vietnam cooperate with competent authorities of other countries, international organizations, foreign organizations, and individuals to enhance legal capacity, information, technology, and training for activities to prevent and combat trafficking in persons.

2. The coordination between competent authorities of Vietnam and those of foreign countries to resolve cases of trafficking in persons shall be carried out in accordance with the provisions of international treaties to which the Socialist Republic of Vietnam is a party.

In cases where Vietnam and the relevant country are not parties to the same international treaty, the competent authorities of Vietnam shall implement international cooperation on a reciprocal basis, consistent with Vietnamese law, international law, and international practice.

Article 59. International Cooperation in Rescuing and Repatriating Victims

1. The competent authority of Vietnam shall be responsible for cooperating with the competent authority of foreign countries in rescuing, supporting, and protecting victims, persons who are being identified as victims.

2. The Socialist Republic of Vietnam shall create favorable conditions for repatriating foreign victims to their country of nationality or last habitual residence; apply measures to ensure that the repatriation of victims takes place based on international treaties to which the Socialist Republic of Vietnam is a party, in accordance with this Law and relevant laws, international agreements between Vietnam and other countries, ensuring the safety of life, health, dignity, and personal integrity of victims.

Article 60. Judicial Assistance in Preventing and Combating Trafficking in Persons

Judicial assistance in preventing and combating trafficking in persons between Vietnam and related countries shall be carried out based on international treaties to which the Socialist Republic of Vietnam and such countries are both parties, or on the principle of reciprocity, in compliance with Vietnamese law, international law, and international customs.

Chapter VIII

IMPLEMENTING PROVISIONS

1. Supplement Clause 6a after Clause 6 as follows:

"6a. Victims, persons who are being identified as victims of trafficking in persons, and persons under 18 years old accompanying them as provided for in the Law on Prevention and Combating Trafficking in Persons."

2. Abolish Point g of Clause 7.

Article 62. Effect of enforcement

1. This Law shall take effect from July 1, 2025.

2. The Law on Prevention and Combating Trafficking in Persons No. 66/2011/QH12 ceases to be effective from the date this Law comes into force, except as provided for in Article 63 of this Law.

Article 63. Transitional Provisions

Persons determined to be victims before the date this Law comes into effect and persons under 18 years old accompanying them shall enjoy support benefits as prescribed by the Law on Prevention and Combating Trafficking in Persons No. 66/2011/QH12.

This Law was adopted by the National Assembly of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, 15th term, 8th session, on November 28, 2024.