Starting from February 23, the session took place against a backdrop of prolonged conflicts and instability in many regions worldwide. Notably, escalating tensions related to the Middle East conflict prompted the Council to convene two urgent debates on March 25 and 27.
The session recorded key outcomes, including a High-Level Segment attended by more than 120 senior officials, discussions and consideration of 38 resolutions, multiple thematic debates on major human rights issues, and the adoption of outcomes under the fourth cycle of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) for 13 countries.
Throughout the session, the Vietnamese delegation participated actively, constructively, and responsibly in consultations on all 38 resolutions while advancing two notable initiatives. Viet Nam delivered a joint statement on gender equality in implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), co-sponsored by 67 countries, and co-hosted a side event with the Republic of Korea, Japan, and Thailand addressing human rights impacts of online scams.
Viet Nam also led the drafting and presentation of ASEAN’s joint statement during discussions on financing for sustainable development in line with economic, social and cultural rights obligations. In addition, the delegation delivered national statements at several key dialogues and discussions during the session.
Viet Nam’s proactive and responsible engagement at the 61st session once again reflected its consistent policy of promoting and protecting human rights, while demonstrating readiness to assume its 2026–2028 membership term at the UNHRC with renewed determination and confidence built on the country’s development achievements and major domestic political milestones.
Amid an increasingly uncertain global landscape, Viet Nam reaffirmed its commitment to working with the international community to promote dialogue and cooperation, uphold international law and the UN Charter, safeguard shared human values, and contribute responsibly to global efforts for peace, stability, sustainable development, and human rights for all.
