Draft:Y Quynh Bdăp

Y Quynh Bdăp is a Vietnamese activist from Krong Ana District, known for advocating for indigenous rights in Vietnam. On January 19, 2024, Y Quynh was sentenced to 10 years under charges of terrorism by the People's Court of Dak Lak province. His release is expected on January 16, 2024.

Activism
Y Quynh co-founded Montagnards Stand For Justice (MSFJ), a non-profit organization in Thailand, along with Y Phic Hdok, Y Pher Hdrue and 15 other supporters with the similar vision in 2019. MSFJ promotes peace and human rights in the Central Highlights of Vietnam, particularly addressing suppression of religious freedom. Since April 2023, MSFJ has been registered in the United States. Over 100 people are involved in the non-profit organizations with supporters in Vietnam, Thailand and the United States.

Arrest & Sentence
On January 16, 2024, Y Quynh was tried by the People’s Court of Dak Lak Province along with nearly 100 people. A few days later, on January 19, Y Quynh was sentenced to 10 years in prison charged with terrorism under Article 299 of Vietnam’s Penal Code with an expected release date on January 16, 2034. Y Quynh was accused of participating in the June 11, 2023 attacks on government facilities in the southern province of Dak Lak. The attacks were conducted in Ea Tieu and Ea Ktur communes of Cu Kuin district, resulting in nine deaths: four policemen, two commune officials and three villagers. The Internal Security Bureau believed that Y Quynh financed and directed the instructions on how to carry out the attacks. Y Quynh has denied participating in the attack.