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Vietnam, as part of its commitment to human rights, strives to strengthen the effectiveness of the application of its laws relating to this essential topic. Over the years, the country has developed an increasingly comprehensive legal framework, which integrates both the requirements of national development and international standards. This journey, punctuated by reforms and new legislation, attests to the determination of the Vietnamese State to promote fundamental rights, while responding to contemporary challenges. In this regard, Vietnam’s efforts demonstrate a clear desire to adapt its practices to social realities and legal commitments on the global stage.
Vietnam has recently made notable progress in improving the application of human rights laws. The Vietnamese State has established a legal framework which reflects both the realities of its development and the international standards in matters of human rights. This dynamic aims to ensure better respect for civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights, in particular by responding to the needs of the most vulnerable groups in society.
An evolving legal system
Since the start of the reforms Doi me 35 years ago, Vietnam developed a legal system that attempts to regulate social relations with particular attention to human rights. The 2013 Constitution, adopted during the XIIIe legislature of the National Assembly, is a central pillar of this commitment. It marks a significant step forward in the protection of fundamental rights.
Promulgation of laws and reforms
During the period 2016-2021, the National Assembly of Vietnam ratified a total of 72 laws and several resolutions that incorporate provisions regarding human rights. These texts aim to respond to current social practices and improve the existing legal framework. Some of these legislative texts introduce essential laws for the first time, thus helping to regulate economic and social activities while respecting individual rights.
Challenges and perspectives
Despite these advances, challenges remain. As pointed out by Associate Professor Dr Tuong Duy Kiên, some inconsistencies in the legal system persist, hampering effective enforcement of human rights laws. The XIIIe National Party Congress highlighted the need for continuous improvement to meet the demands of a rapidly changing global environment.
Strategies for the future
With a view to harmonious development of human rights, Vietnam has developed a strategy for 2030, with a vision until 2045. This strategy focuses on strengthening laws that guarantee the exercise of civil rights, political, economic, social and cultural. It also recognizes the crucial importance of addressing the rights of vulnerable groups, such as women, children, the elderly and those with disabilities.
Strengthening enforcement mechanisms
To improve citizens’ access to justice, it is essential to strengthen law enforcement mechanisms. The Dr Tuong Duy Kiên recommends clarification of the competences and responsibilities of government agencies in the protection of human rights. Particular attention must be paid to the role of lawyers, as well as the establishment of comprehensive legal services for better legal information.
International cooperation
Vietnam has intensified cooperation on legal and judicial issues internationally. By becoming a member of the Human Rights Council, the country is actively committed to promoting human rights standards human rights on a global scale. This commitment demonstrates Vietnam’s desire to work hand in hand with other nations to improve the effectiveness of laws and strengthen respect for fundamental rights.
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Vietnam’s commitment to human rights
- Robust legal system: Developing comprehensive human rights laws for 35 years.
- 2013 Constitution: Major advance for the protection of human rights.
- Laws enacted: 72 laws and several relevant resolutions between 2016 and 2021.
- Priority to vulnerable groups: Rights of women, children, elderly people, and people with disabilities.
- Enforcement mechanisms: Strengthening government bodies for the protection of rights.
- Access to justice: Improvement of legal information and services to citizens.
- International cooperation: Strengthened commitments within international bodies.
- Long-term strategy: Vision to 2045 for improving rights laws.
FAQs on Vietnam’s commitment to human rights
What is Vietnam’s human rights priority? Vietnam is committed to improving the effectiveness of the implementation of human rights laws.
How long has Vietnam been working on its legal system? Vietnam has established a legal system over the 35 years of Doi me (Renewal) to regulate social relations.
What significant change took place with the 2013 Constitution? The 2013 Constitution, adopted during the XIIIe legislature of the National Assembly, is considered a major step forward for the protection of human rights.
How many important pieces of legislation have been enacted recently? During the 2016-2021 legislature, the National Assembly promulgated a total of 72 laws and several other relevant legal provisions.
What are the main shortcomings of the current legal system? Despite progress, the legal system still has limitations, including inconsistencies in its ability to meet current practical requirements.
What are the recommendations for the future regarding human rights? The 2030 strategy should focus on the development of laws guaranteeing the exercise of civil and political rights as well as economic, social and cultural rights.
Which vulnerable groups are particularly taken into account in policies? Particular attention is paid to the rights of women, children, the elderly, people with disabilities and disadvantaged populations.
How does Vietnam plan to improve access to justice? The country plans to strengthen law enforcement mechanisms and develop a full range of legal services to improve citizens’ access to legal information.
What is the role of lawyers in the Vietnamese legal system? Strengthening the role of lawyers is crucial to guarantee the protection of human rights and improve state management in legal affairs.