Vietnam Reaffirms Commitment to International Human Rights Cooperation on Human Rights Day
Hanoi, The Gulf Observer: As the world marks International Human Rights Day amidst ongoing global crises and widespread human rights violations, Vietnam’s active engagement with international human rights mechanisms highlights the enduring value of multilateral cooperation and adherence to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), adopted 76 years ago.
Vietnam has ratified seven of the nine core international human rights instruments, including the UN Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (UNCAT), which also commemorates its 40th anniversary on this day. By ratifying these treaties, Vietnam demonstrates its commitment to aligning its national frameworks with international norms and participating in regular review processes.
Key Engagements in 2025
Vietnam’s commitment will be further tested in 2025 as the country engages with several UN treaty bodies. Scheduled reviews include:
- March 2025: Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD)
- July 2025: Human Rights Committee under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR)
- October 2025: Committee on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW)
These engagements provide opportunities for Vietnam to reflect on its progress and address any gaps in implementing international human rights commitments.
Universal Periodic Review (UPR)
Vietnam’s openness to international human rights dialogue was evident during the 4th Universal Periodic Review (UPR) cycle completed in October 2024. Accepting 271 out of 320 recommendations (an 85% acceptance rate), Vietnam has shown a strong commitment to constructive engagement with the global community.
To ensure effective implementation, Vietnam is developing a National Master Plan for the 4th UPR, building on lessons from the previous cycle. The plan will outline responsibilities, budgets, and measurable indicators while involving diverse stakeholders such as socio-political organizations, communities, and NGOs to ensure inclusivity.
Strengthening UNCAT Implementation
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) continues to support Vietnam in implementing the UNCAT. Following the Government’s submission of its second periodic report earlier in 2024, the Ministry of Public Security (MPS) participated in discussions in Geneva to share best practices. UNDP also facilitated workshops in Hà Nội and Hồ Chí Minh City, training over 140 law enforcement officials on implementing the Convention’s recommendations.
Role in the UN Human Rights Council
As a current member of the UN Human Rights Council (2023–2025), Vietnam has actively contributed to global human rights dialogue, sponsoring resolutions on climate action and the 70th anniversary of the UDHR. Its candidacy for a second term (2026–2028) further signals Vietnam’s dedication to remaining an engaged participant in international human rights cooperation.
UNDP’s Perspective
Despite global challenges, UNDP commends Vietnam’s efforts, emphasizing the need for political will and clear roadmaps to turn commitments into tangible actions. UNDP stands ready to support legislative reforms, the development of the UPR Master Plan, and inclusive, human-centered development initiatives.
On this Human Rights Day, Vietnam’s actions reaffirm the relevance of international human rights instruments and cooperation as essential tools in building a just, equitable, and rules-based global order.
