15th meeting of the EU DAG under the EU-Viet Nam FTA

The 15th meeting of the EU Domestic Advisory Group (DAG) under the EU-Viet Nam Free Trade Agreement focused on the implementation of the TSD chapter, labour rights, civic space in Viet Nam, and the future role of DAGs in monitoring the agreement.

Representatives from the European Commission provided updates on recent developments in EU-Viet Nam relations, including the establishment of a new EU-Viet Nam Task Force aimed at strengthening technical and political engagement on key implementation issues under the EVFTA. Members welcomed efforts to reactivate the agreement’s institutional structures but stressed that deeper bilateral cooperation must remain linked to concrete progress on sustainability and labour commitments.

Discussions highlighted persistent concerns regarding the ratification and implementation of ILO Convention No. 87 on Freedom of Association, labour inspections, and the broader shrinking space for civil society and human rights defenders in Viet Nam. Members reiterated the importance of maintaining pressure on Viet Nam to fully implement its TSD obligations.

Saskia Bricmont (MEP) exchanged views with members on the role of the European Parliament in monitoring the implementation of the EVFTA, particularly regarding labour rights and human rights commitments. Participants stressed the need for stronger involvement of DAGs in institutional discussions and closer cooperation with the European Parliament.

The meeting also addressed the follow-up to complaints submitted under the EU’s Single Entry Point mechanism and discussed the potential role of civil society under the upcoming Forced Labour Regulation.

Finally, members confirmed priority areas for future work, including sustainable fisheries, women’s empowerment, and continued engagement on ILO conventions, ahead of future joint meetings with the Vietnamese DAG.