This was emphasized by participants in a conference on Vietnam-United Kingdom experiences on defamation laws held in Hanoi on March 10.

The conference focused on defamation issues in Vietnam, introducing British law concepts of privilege and how defamation laws and regulations can support public interest and ‘responsible journalism’.

“The UK has a long tradition of free and open media. With freedom comes responsibility, and we are pleased to share UK experiences in responding to these challenges,” said Peter Connolly, British Charge d’Affaires.

“Meanwhile, the Vietnamese media has developed rapidly along with economic prosperity… We hope to help Vietnam develop and regulate a healthy, responsible press, while protecting individuals’ and organizations’ reputations,” he said.