Decree 1079 has helped raise both domestic and global awareness of Vietnam’s efforts and achievements in protecting and promoting human rights, in line with its international commitments. The next step: strengthening international cooperation in human rights communications.

The government’s first human rights communications strategy

At a press conference held on December 11 in Hanoi, representatives from the Department of Grassroots Information and External Information under the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism shared updates on the first three years of Decree 1079 - the government’s inaugural strategy dedicated to human rights communications in Vietnam.

Approved by the Prime Minister on September 14, 2022, Decree 1079 was designed to transform public understanding of human rights, providing transparent, accessible information to Vietnamese citizens, overseas communities, and the international public.

Its overarching goal is to clarify Vietnam’s stance, policies, and achievements in human rights protection, and to elevate the country’s credibility at national, regional, and global levels.

The decree outlines specific themes for communications efforts. Among the top priorities is public education on international human rights law - especially the seven core treaties to which Vietnam is a signatory: the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights; the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights; the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women; the Convention on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination; the Convention on the Rights of the Child; the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities; and the Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment.

It also emphasizes Vietnam’s human rights commitments under bilateral and multilateral frameworks, including the domestic implementation of international treaties.

“This is the government’s first communications strategy focused on human rights. It lays a foundation for media agencies, ministries, and sectors to coordinate more effectively,” said a representative from the Department of Grassroots Information and External Information. The plan spans five years, from 2023 to 2028.

Positive progress after three years

Communicating about human rights remains a complex task, especially in an environment where disinformation, incitement, and “color revolutions” continue to pose risks.

Yet Decree 1079 has already yielded significant results, according to officials and reports from ministries and localities.

It has established a consistent legal framework and unified coordination mechanism, enabling more professional and methodical communications efforts nationwide.

Human rights-related content has become more visible and accessible, contributing to public understanding, trust, and consensus in implementing policies.

Local media platforms and state news agencies have actively coordinated with national authorities to ensure accurate, balanced, and well-informed reporting. This effort has helped dispel misunderstandings and counter false or baseless claims about Vietnam’s human rights record.

“These activities help affirm and enhance Vietnam’s position in the international arena, while reinforcing its credibility in the field of human rights,” a department representative emphasized.

Key strategies for 2026–2030

Looking ahead to the next five-year phase, the Department has proposed several strategic directions:

Interagency collaboration to complete remaining tasks under Decree 1079
More training for media professionals in human rights communication
Accelerating digital transformation and building a unified database on human rights, as part of the national branding and communications strategy

International collaboration essential

While some international cooperation has already occurred - such as joint campaigns on children's rights and diplomatic events hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs - officials say much more is needed.

“We must pursue broader international cooperation and secure more support from global organizations. This will enhance the data, resources, and credibility of our human rights communications,” said the department spokesperson.

One of the specific targets of Decree 1079 by 2028 is to fulfill recommendations from the United Nations Human Rights Council under the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) mechanism - specifically recommendations 63, 67, and 86 - focused on strengthening communications and awareness around human rights in Vietnam.

PV