Ministry of Public Security proposes fines for domestic violence, including forced sex

A billboard capaigning against domestic violence in Việt Nam. The Ministry of Public Security is drafting a law to crack down on domestic violence. — Photo toquoc.vn

HÀ NỘI — The Ministry of Public Security is seeking public input on a draft law that imposes penalties for a range of unethical behaviours within family relationships.

The draft stipulates that forcing a family member to leave their legal residence could result in a fine ranging from VNĐ5 million (US$197) to VNĐ10 million ($393). Additionally, threatening violence for the eviction could lead to higher fine, ranging from VNĐ10 million to VNĐ20 million ($787).

Individuals who instigate, persuade or assist others in committing acts of domestic violence may face fines ranging from VNĐ5 million to VNĐ10 million.

Those who forcibly compel others to engage in domestic violence may be subject to fines of between VNĐ10 million and VNĐ20 million.

Those who distribute information, documents, images or audio recordings that incite domestic violence may receive a warning or a fine ranging from VNĐ1 million ($39) to VNĐ2 million ($78).

Those who engage in acts of physical assault, threats, or other intentional actions that endanger the health or life of a family member will face fines ranging from VNĐ1 million to VNĐ2 million.

The draft law also introduces additional penalties for acts of torture or mistreatment of family members.

Individuals who neglect, disregard, fail to care for pregnant women, women with children under 36 months old, individuals with disabilities or those unable to care for themselves may be subject to fines ranging from VNĐ10 million to VNĐ20 million.

The draft law also mandates penalties for acts of isolation, regular psychological pressure and sexual violence in marriage relationships.

A warning or a fine of between VNĐ5 million and VNĐ10 million will be imposed for actions such as preventing a family member from meeting their relatives or engaging in social relationships, denying a family member the right to work and engage in social activities, and discriminating against a family member based on their physical appearance, gender or ability.

Individuals who force a family member to witness violence against people or animals, listen to pornographic sounds, watch pornographic images, or read pornographic content would face fines ranging from VNĐ10 million to VNĐ20 million.

A fine of from VNĐ20 million to VNĐ30 million ($1,180) will likely be imposed on acts of forcing a family member to perform pornographic acts or use stimulants, sexually harassing a family member, or detaining a family member.

A fine of between VNĐ30 million to VNĐ50 million ($1,967) is proposed for forcing a spouse to have sexual intercourse against his or her will.

Those who commit the acts of appropriating or destroying the common property of the family or the personal property of another family member will receive fines of between VNĐ20 million to VNĐ30 million. — VNS