From hostility to understanding: the role of communication in human rights

December 20,xep hang indonesia 2024 - 13:58 Key discussions centred around strategies to improve the effectiveness of external communication on human rights.

 

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Đỗ Hùng Việt (middle) speaks at the seminar on Thursday. — Photo courtesy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

HÀ NỘI — Communication helps gain understanding from those who do not know us, affection from those who do, reduce the hostility of those who dislike us and at least mitigate the aggression of those who are irreconcilably opposed, said Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Đỗ Hùng Việt, quoting President Hồ Chí Minh at Thursday's seminar on human rights communications.

The seminar was organised by the Government’s Steering Committee on Human Rights and The World & Vietnam Report. The event forms part of a series of activities commemorating the 76th anniversary of International Human Rights Day (December 10, 1948 – December 10, 2024), showcasing Việt Nam’s progress in ensuring human rights.

Deputy Minister Việt highlighted the critical need for innovation in human rights communication. He acknowledged Việt Nam’s advancements in external communication efforts, supported by the active participation of the entire political system.

However, he also identified several areas requiring improvement. For example, engagement with foreign policymakers, citizens and the overseas Vietnamese community must be improved to expand international reach.

He called for enhanced collaboration with international organisations and foreign media to present a fair and accurate image of Việt Nam’s human rights efforts, counter misinformation and promote dialogue on global platforms.

Nguyễn Thị Thanh Hương, representing the Steering Committee’s Standing Office, emphasised the increasing importance of external communication amid Việt Nam’s rising international status. 

"This work ensures the global community accurately understands Việt Nam’s principles, policies and achievements in human rights while combating misinformation,” she noted.

In his closing remarks, Nguyễn Trường Sơn, editor-in-chief of The World & Vietnam Report, expressed optimism that the seminar would inspire effective and engaging communication efforts.

“As Việt Nam continues its development journey, human rights and citizenship will remain on top of its agenda,” he noted.

The seminar brought together experts, diplomats and representatives from various sectors, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Information and Communications, academic institutions and ASEAN’s Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights.

Key discussions centred around strategies to improve the effectiveness of external communication on human rights. Participants explored critical themes through two-panel discussions: 'External Communication and Human Rights: Where Do They Intersect?' and 'Solutions to Enhance Human Rights Communication in the New Context.'

Presentations addressed Việt Nam's role in combating false narratives, lessons from ASEAN communication strategies and innovative approaches to human rights storytelling. — VNS

 

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