On January 6-7, the 28th U.S.-Vietnam Human Rights Dialogue took place in Hanoi, Vietnam. Assistant Secretary for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor Dafna Rand led the U.S. delegation. She was accompanied by Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom Rashad Hussain and congressional staff members, highlighting congressional support for advancing human rights in Vietnam. The Vietnamese delegation was headed by Ministry of Foreign Affairs Director General for the International Organizations Department Pham Hai Anh. Discussions also included religious groups and non-governmental organizations (NGOs).
The dialogue covered various human rights issues such as implementing recommendations from Vietnam’s UN Universal Periodic Review. The United States urged Vietnam to protect freedom of expression and association, improve rule of law, advance legal reforms, and safeguard freedom of religion or belief along with the rights of marginalized populations. The importance of a supportive environment for NGOs to achieve Vietnam's development goals was emphasized by the U.S., which also called on Vietnam to release individuals unjustly detained.
Human rights promotion is a core component of U.S. foreign policy. As part of the U.S.-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, both nations agreed to deepen cooperation through dialogues and exchanges. Both sides recognized the importance of continuing frank, constructive discussions aimed at achieving results.
