Hanoi hosts regional human rights workshop

Experience and good practices in preparing national reports on human rights protection and promotion in compliance with United Nations human rights mechanisms and conventions were shared at a two-day regional workshop held in Hanoi by the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission

Experience and good practices in preparing national reports on human rights protection and promotion in compliance with United Nations human rights mechanisms and conventions were shared at a two-day regional workshop held in Hanoi by the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights.

Participants at the workshop.

Addressing the opening session on July 3, Deputy Foreign Minister Pham Quang Vinh praised the commission for helping ASEAN build a community respecting international law and meeting international legal standards.

He emphasised that ASEAN cooperation in human rights needs to base on the principles and operation methods already stipulated in the ASEAN Charter and the commission’s regulations.

He said he wishes the commission to continue enhancing and deepening the partnership among ASEAN member countries in promoting and protecting human rights and well-being of the people.

By the end of the year, Vietnam will become a member of seven out of nine UN conventions on human rights, Vinh said, adding the country will meet all international commitments.

Vietnam is willing to share and wishes to learn experience from other countries, particularly in defining proper ways to approach and maximise existing resources as well as increase the involvement of all parties, especially each citizen, to better her human rights protection and promotion, according to the official.

Apart from sharing experience in making and presenting national reports on the implementation of international treaties on human rights, participants have put forth proposals to ensure and promote human rights in Southeast Asia.