Egypt and Vietnam are set to secure seats on the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) despite facing criticism for their human rights records. The UN General Assembly will elect members to the UN’s premier rights body in a noncompetitive vote on October 14, 2025. These two countries, along with 12 others, are seeking three-year terms on the council.
The UNHRC is responsible for promoting and protecting human rights around the world. It is made up of 47 member states, and its main objective is to address human rights violations and promote human rights education. The council meets three times a year in Geneva, Switzerland, to discuss and address human rights issues globally.
Egypt and Vietnam have been facing scrutiny from human rights organizations for their lack of commitment to upholding human rights. Both countries have been accused of suppressing dissent and cracking down on political opposition. Despite these challenges, Egypt and Vietnam have made significant progress in improving their human rights situation in recent years.
Egypt, a country with a long history and rich cultural heritage, has been working towards reforming its human rights policies. In the past, the country has faced criticism for its treatment of political dissidents and journalists. However, in recent years, the Egyptian government has taken steps to address these concerns and improve its human rights record.
One of the most significant steps taken by the Egyptian government was the establishment of the National Council for Human Rights (NCHR) in 2003. The NCHR is an independent body responsible for promoting and protecting human rights in the country. It has been actively working towards addressing human rights violations and promoting human rights education in Egypt.
Moreover, Egypt has also made significant progress in promoting gender equality and women’s rights. In 2014, the country passed a new constitution that guarantees equal rights for men and women. The government has also introduced laws to protect women from domestic violence and discrimination in the workplace.
Similarly, Vietnam has also been making efforts to improve its human rights situation. The country has faced criticism for its restrictions on freedom of speech and assembly. However, in recent years, the government has taken steps to address these concerns and promote human rights.
In 2013, Vietnam passed a new constitution that included provisions for the protection of human rights. The country has also made efforts to improve its judicial system and has taken steps to combat corruption. These measures have resulted in an increase in political and religious freedoms in the country.
Furthermore, Vietnam has also made significant progress in promoting gender equality and women’s rights. The government has implemented policies to improve women’s access to education and employment opportunities. In 2019, the country’s National Assembly passed a law on gender equality, which aims to eliminate discrimination against women and promote their participation in decision-making processes.
The election of Egypt and Vietnam to the UNHRC will provide an opportunity for these countries to further improve their human rights records. As members of the council, they will have a platform to address human rights violations and share their progress with the international community. It will also give them the opportunity to learn from other member states and work towards promoting human rights globally.
Moreover, the inclusion of these two countries on the council will also bring diversity and representation to the body. It will provide a platform for their voices to be heard and contribute to the discussions on human rights issues.
In conclusion, despite facing criticism for their human rights records, Egypt and Vietnam have made significant progress in promoting and protecting human rights in recent years. Their election to the UNHRC will provide an opportunity for them to continue their efforts and work towards creating a more just and equal society. As members of the council, they will have the support and guidance of the international community to further improve their human rights situation. Let us welcome Egypt and Vietnam to the UNHRC and support them in their journey towards promoting and protecting human rights for all.
