C.
d.
Where accounts of persecution or other incidents with authorities are requested [e.g., Question C(1)(v)], a list of follow-up questions should be included to ensure the record covers all pertinent details. This "follow-up list" should request the applicant's account of what happened, the circumstances, date, location, the name and position, if known, of the official who took such action, the reason why the incident occurred, and the names and addresses of people who witnessed or knew of the incident and could verify the account. If such persons are in Vietnam, an additional question requesting the applicant to indicate whether verifying the account would jeopardize the witness' safety would be appropriate.
An additional question regarding the applicant's background should be asked, such as: "Have you or any close member of your family ever been mistreated by the authorities? If so, specify for each instance." (Include the follow-up list of questions itemized in the immediately preceding recommendation.)
2. Involvement in Political Parties
[HKQ, Section C(2)]
a.
b.
C.
d.
A new question should be added at the start of this section on political involvement to establish whether the applicant engaged in any political or resistance activity. For example: "Have you ever been, or are you now, involved in any political party or resistance organization, either before or after institution of the Communist government in northern or southern Vietnam?”
The questions in this section should be flexible enough to allow for informal or covertly-run groups, and to recognize the lack of documentation inherent in refugee situations. (Handbook, para. 197) For example, the current Question C(2)(vi) should be rephrased to allow for informal contacts with an organization as well as full-fledged membership. It should also include a request for names and addresses of persons who can verify the applicant's account as an alternative to documentation.
This section must take into consideration the applicant's desire to protect the identity of those still in Vietnam who may be participants in political or resistance groups. Thus, Question C(2)(iii) requesting names of leaders should either be deleted as unnecessary or include instructions to the interviewer to give the applicant the ability to protect group leaders by refusing to give out their identities.
Add a question to this section regarding the purpose of the political party or resistance organization.
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