Because they are experiencing unprecedented problems and pressure, both externally and internally, compared to 20 years ago, 15 years ago, even 10 years ago. Their control over Vietnamese society is cracking.
The fact that they unleashed one of the worst crackdowns over the last 20 years is a sure sign that they are being cornered. They have to react. They have to retaliate. The encouraging thing is that despite it being the worst crackdown over the last 20 years, the number of activists right now in Vietnam is increasing. Compared to years ago, the number of people being involved is increasing. There are more protests than ever before. People are less afraid to speak out. People are pushing back.
Just a couple of weeks ago, we had a massive labour strike and walkout in Vietnam. Some 90,000 workers walked off the job for the first time ever. People are pushing back. We can clearly see that if you compare now, 2015, to 2005. It's clear that they're being pushed back and they are retreating.