The theme for International Human Rights Day 2008 “Dignity and Justice for all” reinforces the vision of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) as a commitment to universal dignity and justice. The UDHR and its core values of inherent human dignity, non-discrimination, equality, fairness and universality apply to all people.

John Hendra, UN Resident Coordinator said Vietnam has made tremendous social and economic progress and has taken the lead in ratifying several key international human rights treaties. As Vietnam rapidly moves to a middle income status, it is important that future growth is as inclusive as possible so that all Vietnamese women, men and children can fully benefit from Vietnam’s progress. The UN stands ready to both assist Vietnam in meeting its international commitments and in its continued efforts to enable all Vietnamese people to enjoy their rights, enshrined nearly 60 years ago in the UDHR.

Vietnam was one of the first countries to ratify the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) as well as other important international human rights legislation.

Vietnam has approved a Law on Family Violence Prevention and Control – one of the important steps in implementing the CEDAW.

Suzette Mitchell, an official of the UN Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM) has praised Vietnam’s efforts in implementing CEDAW. However, to ensure that all women, especially women in rural and ethnic minority areas can participate in social affairs, have a political life and have access to education and healthcare services, Vietnam should implement more of CEDAW’s articles related to women.

On October 22, 2007, Vietnam signed the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, another important landmark in UN history.