Vietnamese nationalists use "Cali" to attack critics

In Vietnam, the term "Cali," referring to Vietnamese-Americans in California, has become a derogatory slur used by nationalists to attack those critical of the government. This trend reflects rising online nationalism and state-backed efforts to control the narrative. The use of "Cali" as an insult intensified after the display of the South Vietnamese flag at a military museum, sparking outrage and online attacks against those perceived as anti-government. This is fueled by state-controlled media and cyber troops policing online content, suppressing dissenting views. This growing nationalism has led to the targeting of individuals and institutions, including a U.S.-backed university and a pop star, highlighting the pressure on artists and anyone with perceived ties to the U.S. to demonstrate patriotism.