Vietnam brings an important perspective to UN Human Rights Council: UNDP Resident Representative
WVR - According to UNDP Resident Representative in Vietnam Ramla Khalidi, as a developing and emerging economy, Vietnam brings an important perspective to United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) that emphasizes the right to development as an integral part of the human rights agenda.
Latest
 |
| UNDP Resident Representative in Vietnam Ramla Khalidi. (Source: UNDP) |
On the occasion of Vietnam's re-election to the UNHRC for the 2026-2028 term, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative in Vietnam Ramla Khalidi gave an exclusive interview to The World & Vietnam Report about UNDP’s expectations and and opportunities for Vietnam as a member of the UNHRC (2026–2028 term).
Could you share your views on the significance of Vietnam’s re-election to the UNHRC for the 2026–2028 term?
Vietnam’s re-election to the Human Rights Council with 180 votes demonstrates the strong support and confidence from other UN Member States in Vietnam’s constructive role in advancing human rights diplomacy. Vietnam ranked among the countries receiving the highest number of votes across all regions.
As a developing and emerging economy, Vietnam brings an important perspective that emphasizes the right to development as an integral part of the human rights agenda. This new mandate offers a timely opportunity for Vietnam to further champion multilateralism and serve as a regional leader in promoting inclusive, balanced, and forward-looking approaches to human rights.
What are UNDP’s expectations and what opportunities does UNDP see for Vietnam as a member of the UNHRC (2026–2028 term)?
UNDP welcomes Vietnam’s twelve voluntary commitments and eight priority areas as a newly elected member of the Human Rights Council. These priorities align closely with the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals.
We view this new term as an important opportunity for Vietnam to further strengthen its leadership in multilateral human rights initiatives, including the promotion of women’s rights and leadership, the advancement of a human rights-based approach to digital transformation and climate action, and the protection of vulnerable groups.
We also welcome Vietnam’s commitment to deepen its engagement in human rights cooperation within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). At the national level, Vietnam’s renewed Council membership offers momentum to translate international commitments into tangible progress, particularly through the effective implementation of accepted recommendations from the fourth Universal Periodic Review cycle.
| As a member of the UNHRC for the 2026–2028 term, Vietnam continues to promote identified eight priority areas: Enhancing the effectiveness of the Human Rights Council; Protecting human rights in the context of climate change; Combating violence and discrimination, protecting vulnerable groups; Promoting gender equality; Protecting human rights in the digital age; Promoting the right to health; Right to employment; and Right to education and human rights education. |
 |
| UNDP Vietnam, EU and UNICEF at the ceremonial signing of the Contribution Agreement for the EU Justice and Legal Empowerment Programme – Phase II (EU JULE II) on September 29. (Source: UNDP) |
What role can the partnership between UNDP and the Government of Vietnam play in maximizing the positive impact of Vietnam's second consecutive term in the Human Rights Council?
UNDP is proud to be a longstanding partner of Vietnam in advancing human rights, sustainable development, and the rule of law. Through the recently launched EU-funded Justice and Legal Empowerment Programme, implemented jointly with UNICEF, UNDP will support Vietnam in strengthening justice institutions, advancing legal reform, promoting digital transformation grounded in human rights principles, and enhancing meaningful engagement with international human rights mechanisms.
Beyond this, UNDP continues to work closely with government counterparts on reporting to and implementing obligations under UN human rights mechanisms such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CAT).
UNDP stands ready to build on this strong partnership, supporting Vietnam in translating its international commitments into tangible results and demonstrating leadership in promoting a just, inclusive, and sustainable future for all.
Thank you!
 |
| Vietnam’s voluntary pledges as a member of the Human Rights Council for the term 2026-2028. (Designer: Anh Tuan) |
