Legal Partnership Forum on Building the Socialist Rule-of-Law State of Viet Nam in the New Period Implementation of Resolution 27 & Strengthening Rule of Law

Mr. Nguyen Khanh Ngoc, Deputy Minister, Ministry of Justice of Viet Nam

Mr. Nguyen Thanh Hai, Deputy Chairman of the Central Committee of Internal Affairs

H.E. Julien Guerrier, Ambassador of the European Union to Viet Nam

Partners and colleagues, Ms. Ramla Khalidi, UNDP Representative,

Distinguished Guests,

It is a privilege to represent the United Nations in Viet Nam at this Legal Partnership Forum, a high-level dialogue between the Government of Viet Nam, the United Nations, the European Union, and development partners, to discuss how our collective efforts could contribute to strengthen the rule of law for the new period as envisioned in Resolution 27.

Our enduring partnership with Viet Nam is a testament to the power of unity—rooted in mutual respect, shared goals, and common values. It is a partnership that has matured through trust and steadfast collaboration across UN agencies, the Ministry of Justice, and the legal and judicial bodies of Viet Nam. Over the years, we have witnessed significant progress in legal and judicial reforms, which contributes to promotion and protection of human rights. In particular, the UN in Viet Nam commends the accomplishments of Resolutions 48 and 49 on strengthening legal system and judicial reforms.

Resolution 27 comes at a time of both challenges and opportunities. This resolution is instrumental in shaping upcoming years’ strategy, as it emphasizes a strong socialist rule-of-law state guided by the principles of transparency, inclusiveness, and justice. Resolution 27 stands more than a policy directive—it is a commitment to the Vietnamese people, envisioning a society where rights are safeguarded, with transparent governance, and an equitable legal framework.

With the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the SDGs as our compass, the UN’s partnership with Viet Nam is anchored in a strong and shared commitment to ensure that no one is left behind. The New Vision of the Secretary-General for the Rule of Law, and the UN in Viet Nam's Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (CF) for 2022-2026, particularly the outcome on Governance and Access to Justice, align with Viet Nam’s strategic objectives and puts people at the core of governance, fostering transparency, and building a just, inclusive society.

I wish to highlight the shared core values and priorities of Resolution 27, the New Vision of the Secretary-General for the Rule of Law and the UN-GoV Cooperation Framework, which underpins our discussions today:

First, Upholding Rule of Law and Protection of Rights:

Resolution 27 and the UN-GoV Cooperation Framework both reaffirm the commitment to uphold the rule of law, spotlighting the need for transparent governance, human and citizens' rights, judicial fairness, and accountability mechanisms.

Second, Strengthening Institutions and Enhancing Democracy:

Resolution 27 highlights renovation and improved efficiency of the National Assembly, modernizing state administration, and building a professional judiciary. It emphasizes the importance of empowering the people and enhancing the role of the Viet Nam Fatherland Front. In harmony with these aims, the UN-GoV Cooperation Framework advocates for the empowerment and responsiveness of institutions, emphasizes policies and reforms that benefit the whole society.

Third, Integrity and the Fight Against Corruption:

Aligned with Resolution 27's targeted efforts against corruption, the UN-GoV Cooperation Framework commits to supporting the development and implementation of mechanisms to prevent corruption and upholding governance integrity, thereby ensuring equal opportunities for all.

Fourth, Capacity Building, Awareness, and International Collaboration:

Both Resolution 27 and the UN-GoV Cooperation Framework stress the value of promoting public awareness about governance and rights, and call for international integration, cooperation, and multi-stakeholder collaboration.

As we move forward, we must be aware of the challenges and continually evaluate the impact of our policies. It is equally important to ensure that reforms resonate at the grassroots, guaranteeing that every citizen, regardless of their location or socio-economic background, share their benefits.

As we delve deeper in our dialogue today, I suggest our discussions center on:

One, inclusivity: Ensure our strategies embody the spirit of “leaving no one behind”

Two, people-centred: Policies and reforms should align with and reflect the needs of the people.

Three, collaboration: foster collaboration among all stakeholders to mobilize collective wisdom and further propel Viet Nam's progress.

The implementation of Resolution 27 translates into action our shared commitment -- to ensure that by 2026, every individual in Viet Nam, especially vulnerable groups, not only benefits from but actively contributes to creating a nation that's just, safe, and inclusive.

In closing, my deepest appreciation goes to the Ministry of Justice, our steadfast partner in this journey, and to the EU Delegation in Viet Nam for your unwavering support through the Justice and Legal Empowerment Programme (EU JULE). We join hands in this important journey towards a brighter, just, and inclusive future.  

Thank you! Xin cam on!