Vietnam's UNHRC re-election reflects confidence in its engagement with multilateral institutions: UN Resident Coordinator in Vietnam
WVR - "The very high level of support for Vietnam’s re-election to the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) for the 2026-2028 term is an important recognition by the international community", Ms Pauline Tamesis, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Vietnam shared with the World and Vietnam Report about the meanings of Vietnam’s re-election to the United Nations Human Rights Council for the 2026-2028 term.
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| Vietnam's UNHRC re-election reflects confidence in its engagement with multilateral institutions: President Luong Cuong receiveed Ms. Pauline Tamesis, UN Resident Coordinator, and Heads of United Nations Agencies in Viet Nam, September 2025. (Source: Nhan Dan Newspaper) |
Could you please share your thoughts on Vietnam’s re-election to the United Nations Human Rights Council for the 2026–2028 term with an exceptionally high number of votes? In your view, what key factors have contributed to this strong support for Vietnam from the international community?
The very high level of support for Vietnam’s re-election to the United Nations Human Rights Council for the 2026-2028 term is an important recognition by the international community. It reflects confidence in Viet Nam’s engagement with multilateral institutions, its constructive participation in the Human Rights Council’s work, and its willingness to engage in dialogue on complex human rights issues.
I believe there are many important factors that have contributed to this outcome. For one, Vietnam’s active and responsible role during its previous term on the Council, is a strong demonstration of its commitment. Viet Nam’s emphasis on cooperation and dialogue is noteworthy. More importantly, for me, Viet Nam’s clear articulation of priorities that resonate with global concerns, such as sustainable development, climate change, digital transformation, and the promotion of gender equality. Equally important is Viet Nam’s continued engagement with United Nations human rights mechanisms, including the Universal Periodic Review, and its stated commitment to translating international obligations into national action, with a view to advancing equality, non-discrimination and inclusive participation.
At the same time, such strong support also carries expectations. Membership in the Council is not only an honour, but a responsibility to continue strengthening human rights protections at home, including by ensuring that all people, without discrimination, are able to participate meaningfully in public life and benefit equally from development, while also contributing constructively to collective efforts at the global level.
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| Ms Pauline Tamesis shared in the Talkshow "Viet Nam’s Re-election to the United Nations Human Rights Council: Credibility, Trust, and Profound Responsibility". |
Over the past period, which of Vietnam’s contributions and commitments to the United Nations Human Rights Council have impressed you the most, and how do these contributions advance the United Nations’ collective efforts in this vital field?
In the first term, Vietnam’s contributions to the Human Rights Council have been notable for their emphasis on dialogue, inclusivity, and practical cooperation. Vietnam has consistently supported discussions that link human rights with development, the 2030 Agenda, and emerging global challenges such as climate change and digital transformation, areas where international cooperation is essential.
By framing issues of climate change and digital transformation through a human rights lens, Vietnam can contribute to discussions on how digital transition and technological innovation are advancing development while respecting human dignity, equality and non-discrimination. This approach aligns well with the principles of the Global Digital Compact, which seeks to ensure that digital transformation is inclusive, rights-respecting and benefits all.
In addition, these contributions are reinforced in the pledges and commitments Vietnam made in the context of its candidacy to the Human Rights Council. Vietnam’s continued commitment to legal reforms in line with international human rights standards, human rights education, and training for law enforcement contributes to strengthening institutions that play a critical role in protecting rights in an equitable and non-discriminatory manner. These contributions advance the United Nations’ collective efforts by reinforcing a vision of human rights that is universal, inclusive and responsive to contemporary challenges.
How do you assess Vietnam’s efforts in promoting and protecting human rights in recent years, including its engagement in the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) process?
In recent years, Vietnam has taken a number of important steps to advance the promotion and protection of human rights. Its continued participation in the Universal Periodic Review process, including the fourth cycle, demonstrates openness to dialogue and peer review, as well as a willingness to consider recommendations related to both civil and political rights and economic, social and cultural rights.
The development of national action plans to implement accepted UPR recommendations, and the recently adopted national action plan to implement recommendations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, provide an important framework for translating international commitments into national policies. These plans offer an opportunity to address disparities affecting women, children, persons with disabilities, ethnic minorities and other groups in vulnerable situations.
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| In recent years, Viet Nam has taken a number of important steps to advance the promotion and protection of human rights. |
These efforts are positive and should be acknowledged. At the same time, the effectiveness of these efforts will depend on implementation in practice. Continued attention to participation, access to remedies, and the impact of laws and policies on different groups will be essential to ensure that progress is inclusive and that rights are enjoyed equally by all. As a member of the Human Rights Council, Vietnam has an opportunity to further demonstrate how international standards can be implemented in ways that promote social cohesion and inclusion.
Amid both opportunities and intertwined challenges, how can the United Nations further promote cooperation with Vietnam in the time ahead to protect and advance human rights-both within Viet Nam and in contributions to regional and global efforts?
Looking ahead, the United Nations can further strengthen cooperation with Vietnam through sustained dialogue, technical assistance and partnerships that support inclusive and rights-based development. This includes supporting the effective implementation of Vietnam’s human rights commitments under international treaties, the UPR, and its voluntary pledges for the 2026-2028 term, including the commitment to issue a voluntary UPR mid-term report.
There is also strong potential for deeper collaboration in areas highlighted in Vietnam’s new pledges to the Human Rights Council, such as women’s leadership and the Women, Peace and Security agenda; human rights education; digital rights, including child protection online; and the human rights dimensions of climate change and digital transformation. In this context, collaboration aligned with the Global Digital Compact can help ensure that digital transformation in Vietnam promotes equality, protects children online, and avoids new forms of exclusion or discrimination.
These are issues of global relevance where Vietnam’s experiences can contribute to regional and international discussions, while benefiting from international good practices. This approach is aligned with Vietnam’s commitments, made in the context of its Human Rights Council candidacy, to promote dialogue, cooperation, tolerance and mutual understanding with countries, international partners and relevant stakeholders in support of the realization of all human rights for all.
More broadly, cooperation between the United Nations and Vietnam can continue to emphasize participation, transparency and inclusion, ensuring that policies and reforms are informed by diverse voices. Vietnam’s re-election to the Human Rights Council offers a valuable opportunity to deepen this partnership, strengthening human rights protection at home while contributing constructively to regional and global efforts to advance equality, non-discrimination and human dignity for all.
Finally, on the occasion of Human Rights Day, could you please share the key message on human rights, as well as your hopes and aspirations for a better world - one to which Vietnam will continue to contribute positively and responsibly?
This year’s international Human Right Day reminds us that human rights are essential for everyday life. I’d like to wish everyone fruitful fulfillment of human rights as part of their everyday living in Vietnam for prosperity for peace and harmorny and good life.
Thank you very much!
