Vietnam as a member of the United Nations Human Rights Council: Listening to the voices and aspirations of the youth

On October 14, at the United Nations headquarters in New York (USA), the moment the name Vietnam was called among the countries elected to the United Nations Human Rights Council for the 2026-2028 term stirred emotions among Vietnamese people.

For Vietnamese youth, living in an era of deep integration and development, listening to every "heartbeat" of the nation, it is not only a source of pride but also a reinforcement of the belief that Vietnam's voice and reputation on the international stage are increasingly recognized.

Being re-elected with the highest number of votes in the Asia-Pacific group, and for the third time and second consecutive term, clearly demonstrates the trust the international community places in Vietnam.

Core role, broad opportunities

In a world full of upheavals, global issues such as climate change, digital transformation, gender inequality, or protecting vulnerable groups continue to pose new demands on all nations.

For young people, these challenges are not distant concepts but directly impact their lives, education, and future careers.

Thus, Vietnam's continued participation in the United Nations Human Rights Council is seen as a significant opportunity for the country to affirm its humane, modern, and progressive approach in policy-making, while also creating a more favorable and equitable development environment for the "future force" – the youth.

What young people are most concerned about are the specific changes that will occur in daily life: A more favorable legal environment, forums for youth to contribute ideas, and a transparent governance system that allows the younger generation to participate in policy-making processes.

Increased youth participation in policy-making related to education, employment, the digital environment, or gender equality will help policies become more practical and increase representation for the younger generation. This participation is not only a right but also a responsibility and obligation, with many young Vietnamese ready to take on that role.

For Vietnamese youth, Vietnam's re-election to the United Nations Human Rights Council for the 2026–2028 term is not only a source of pride but also reinforces the belief that Vietnam's voice and reputation on the international stage are increasingly recognized. (Source: Thanh Nien Newspaper)

Moreover, in the context of a rapidly developing digital economy, young people are particularly concerned about human rights in the digital environment. They want privacy to be respected, personal information protected, and the online environment to become safer.

At the same time, they hope that in the near future, Vietnam will promote digital education in schools, teach skills to protect oneself online, and handle negative situations according to civilized and progressive standards.

Alongside this, global issues such as climate change are also a major concern for young Vietnamese and the world in general.

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A segment of Vietnamese youth is actively participating in environmental movements, tree planting campaigns, water source protection, or developing green startup projects.

More importantly, Vietnam, in its role on the Human Rights Council, will further strengthen policies related to environmental rights, protect vulnerable communities, and promote sustainable living.

Sharing with The World and Vietnam Report, many students at the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam expressed their hope that Vietnam will continue to expand international cooperation in education and cultural exchange, providing youth with more opportunities to study, research, interact, and access new standards in governance, technology, and development.

Currently, many scholarship programs, student exchanges, and international internships have become more diverse and accessible, helping Vietnamese youth enhance their capabilities and confidence on the global stage.

Youth expectations

Besides policy expectations, the youth carry a very apparent spiritual aspiration: To live in a society that respects differences, values creative freedom, and encourages new ideas.

According to young people, human rights values should not only be in legal documents or international meetings but must be reflected in daily life: From interpersonal treatment to society creating conditions for each individual to develop comprehensively.

General Secretary To Lam once emphasized that the young generation of Vietnam needs to be not only intellectually capable but also physically strong and culturally rich.

In a recent Youth Dialogue on March 24, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh also affirmed: "Everyone with a talent has a place to shine" – every young person can contribute in their own way, as long as they have the capability and courage.

In recent youth forums, many young people emphasized their desire to be heard more. They hope that agencies, organizations, social groups, and families will provide more space for young people to express opinions, share thoughts, and participate in important national issues.

Many young people believe that their voices, when heard and valued, will contribute to forming more progressive, modern, and suitable policies for today's societal needs.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh in dialogue with youth in 2025 with the theme "Vietnamese Youth Leading in Science and Technology Development, Innovation, and National Digital Transformation". (Source: Central Committee of the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union)

Broadly speaking, the expectations of today's youth reflect a Vietnam undergoing significant transformation: More open, more integrated, and placing people at the center of all development policies.

Every international commitment comes with a significant responsibility, but it also opens up a great opportunity for Vietnam to promote progressive values, build an inclusive society, and nurture the development aspirations of the younger generation.

The young generation of Vietnam is entering a phase where dynamism, creativity, and courage can become important drivers for the country's development.

Vietnam's role as a member of the United Nations Human Rights Council for the 2026–2028 term is expected to create a more favorable environment for these aspirations to be realized.

In this common flow, the voice of the youth is not only a source of positive energy but also a commitment to accompany the country on the path of building a humane, progressive, and sustainable future.

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