Vietnamese officials have issued a stern demand to Facebook parent company Meta, calling for the immediate removal of content they deem "illegal" that criticises the government's management of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The country's foreign ministry has intensified pressure on the social media giant, alleging that numerous posts and accounts have spread misinformation about Vietnam's stewardship of protected cultural and natural landmarks.
Digital Crackdown on Heritage Criticism
This latest confrontation forms part of Hanoi's broader campaign to control online discourse surrounding its environmental and cultural policies. Authorities claim the targeted content violates Vietnamese law and misrepresents their conservation efforts at internationally recognised heritage locations.
The dispute highlights growing tensions between global tech platforms and governments seeking to regulate digital spaces, particularly regarding environmental activism and cultural preservation debates.
UNESCO Sites at Centre of Dispute
Vietnam is home to eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the stunning Ha Long Bay, the ancient town of Hoi An, and the Complex of Hue Monuments. These locations represent both significant tourism revenue sources and matters of national pride.
Critics argue the government's approach prioritises economic development over genuine conservation, leading to concerns from international preservation groups and local activists alike.
Freedom of Expression Concerns
Digital rights organisations have repeatedly raised alarms about Vietnam's increasing internet censorship. The country ranks among the world's worst offenders for digital freedom, with authorities frequently targeting dissenting voices, particularly those questioning environmental policies and development projects.
Facebook, while attempting to maintain its presence in the growing Vietnamese market, has faced consistent pressure to comply with local laws that human rights groups describe as repressive.
The outcome of this latest standoff could set important precedents for how tech giants balance operating in restrictive markets while upholding principles of free expression and access to information.
