The Role of External Dynamics on Vietnam’s Ratification of the Convention Against Torture

This article analyses the case of Vietnam’s ratification of the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment 1987 from 2013 to 2014. It aims to provide empirical evidence to inform current debates regarding the roles of external and internal dynamics, as well as relevant pressures and threats, in shaping state behaviour toward international civil and political rights treaties. Through this case study, it is argued that external dynamics played an essential role in influencing the socialist state’s ultimate ratification behaviour. In the context of globalisation, international political dynamics are determinant conditions for shaping the socialist state’s signing and ratifying activities toward this convention. In the case of Vietnam, the decision to accede to international human rights treaties should be considered the most appropriate response to the mounting political pressure from the international community.