Tep Vanny, 2013 Vital Voices Global Leadership Awards honoree and Global Leadership Network member, has been unjustly sentenced to two and a half years in prison in Cambodia. Vanny has been a longtime land rights advocate for the residents of the Boeung Kak Lake community in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, and has frequently been targeted by the Cambodian government. In August of 2016, Vanny and her colleagues, were arrested while peacefully conducting a small vigil advocating for the release of jailed human rights activists and calling for transparency in government . Vanny has been in prison ever since.
Vanny’s arrest and recent sentencing demonstrates the inability for human rights defenders who are advocating for some of the most basic rights for its citizens, to peacefully and publicly practice freedom of speech and expression. Vital Voices works with thousands of women across the globe like Vanny who put their own safety at risk to protect the lives of others, and call out injustices from every corner of the world. Vital Voices stands with Vanny and calls on other organizations, governments and institutions to ask that she be released from prison and cleared of all charges.
How Can You Help?
Vital Voices is raising funds to support Vanny’s 13-year-old daughter and 11-year-old son. Contributions will support her children’s education and livelihood, ensuring that they thrive while we continue to advocate for Vanny’s release. Donate Now.