The United Nations Human Rights Council on September 27 approved the results of Vietnam's fourth cycle Universal Periodic Review (UPR).

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Do Hung Viet delivers his speech at the meeting. Photo: Vietnam News Agency

This approval marks the completion of the fourth cycle review concerning the protection and promotion of human rights in Vietnam, enabling the nation to implement the recommendations.

At the council’s meeting on September 27, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Do Hung Viet informed the Human Rights Council of Vietnam's decision to accept 271 out of the 320 recommendations presented by countries during the National Report Dialogue in May 2024. This acceptance rate of 84.7% is the highest in all four UPR cycles.

Through this, Vietnam reaffirms its consistent commitment to protecting and promoting human rights and its respect for the UPR mechanism and the Human Rights Council, Deputy Minister Viet said.

A comprehensive plan to implement these recommendations is expected to be formulated and rolled out in the spirit of dialogue and cooperation, he said.

Since the presentation and dialogue on Vietnam’s national report in May 2024, the Deputy Minister said that Vietnam has consolidated and update key laws on the protection of human and civil rights.

He also shared about the losses caused by typhoon Yagi in Vietnam, and highlighted the Government's decisive responses to ensure the safety of the people, carry out relief efforts, and restore and resuming business operations and normal life.

He expressed heartfelt gratitude to countries, partners, and UN agencies for their solidarity and support during this challenging time.

Despite the severe impact of Typhoon Yagi, Vietnam's economic growth prospects remain positive and stable, the Deputy Minister said.

Technological application and innovation in production and business will be further enhanced to form a solid foundation for ensuring the rights of all citizens, Viet added.

Progress has also been made in gender equality, empowering women, and protecting vulnerable groups, he said.

The deputy minister added that thousands of prisoners will enjoy amnesty, providing them with opportunities to reintegrate into society and contribute positively to their communities.

At the meeting, foreign diplomats and representatives of international organizations and non-governmental organizations extended their deepest condolences for the losses and damages caused by the typhoon.

They commended Vietnam for its serious engagement throughout the UPR process, particularly the high acceptance rate of the recommendations and the methodical planning for implementation.

They praised Vietnam's remarkable efforts and achievements in protecting and promoting human rights amidst challenges such as the pandemic, climate change, and natural disasters.

They also cheered Vietnam's progress in improving its human rights legislation, socio-economic development, innovation, sustainable poverty reduction, and ensuring the rights of vulnerable groups.

Many countries encouraged Vietnam to further build on its experience and best practices in implementing UPR recommendations.

Several non-governmental organizations emphasized that Vietnam has adopted many of their recommendations in the UPR process, especially in promoting gender equality, women's empowerment, and sustainable development.

Huy Anh

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