Hanoi (VNA) - Vietnam's re-election to the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) for the 2026-2028 term is a recognition from the international community of the country's new stature and strength, as well as its readiness to contribute more to addressing global issues, according to an official.
Nguyen Vu Minh, Deputy Director of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Department of International Organisations, said that the election for another term also reflects the international community's positive and objective assessment of Vietnam's commitments, efforts, and achievements in promoting and protecting human rights.
Minh attributed the success to the policies and guidelines of the Party, as well as the significant achievements in socio-economic development. Leaders at all levels, especially the high level, have directed and participated in important activities at the UNHRC and efforts to campaign for Vietnam’s re-election to the council for the 2026-2028 term.
In addition, during the 2023-2025 term, Vietnam has established an image as a responsible member, and actively participated in the building of the council, with many initiatives and effective contributions to the work, thus gaining high trust from other countries, he stated.
The country has also implemented its commitments and obligations under international human rights treaties by carrying out the approved master plan for the protection and promotion of human rights, and completing the fourth cycle of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) mechanism.
The advocacy work has a strong connection between bilateral cooperation and mutual support at multilateral forums. Many countries around the world have expressed deep appreciation for Vietnam's seriousness and commitment, and praised its open-mindedness and attentiveness to the concerns of other nations. At the same time, Vietnam has consistently linked this work with domestic and international communications on human rights, and actively countered the arguments of hostile forces that distort Vietnam’s human rights situation.
In its third term as a member of the UNHRC, Vietnam is focusing on eight priority areas to enhance the effectiveness of the council's activities. These priorities include improving the council's efficiency, ensuring human rights in the context of climate change, and combating violence and discrimination while protecting vulnerable groups. Additional priorities involve promoting gender equality, safeguarding human rights in the digital age, and advocating for the rights to health, work, education, and human rights education, and human rights education.
It will continue to contribute to the collective efforts of the international community in addressing common human rights concerns, guided by the principles of "Respect and Understanding - Dialogue and Cooperation – All Rights for All People,” added Minh. Vietnam was elected to the UNHRC for the 2026-2028 term on October 14 (New York time), with 180 votes - the highest among Asia-Pacific candidates competing for seats in this body. The 2026-2028 term will officially begin on January 1, 2026./.
VNA
