Chairing an international seminar titled “Equal and Inclusive Participation of Women in International Law: Lessons Learned and Solutions to Overcoming Existing Barriers” at the United Nations headquarters in New York recently, Ambassador Do Hung Viet, Head of the Permanent Mission of Vietnam to the UN called on countries to continue discussions, raise awareness, and coordinate the implementation of practical and concrete measures at both grassroots and international levels.
During the seminar, speakers and participants exchanged views on existing legal frameworks and procedures, as well as the persistent barriers to women’s equal participation and representation in international legal institutions. Particular attention was given to challenges women face during nomination, campaigning, and election processes for positions in international judicial and legal bodies.
They urged governments and international organizations to take coordinated action at all levels to expand opportunities for women, strengthen support networks, enhance transparency in nomination and election procedures, promote empowerment, and ensure more inclusive working environments within the field of international law.
Vietnam’s hosting of the seminar reaffirmed the country’s consistent commitment to advancing gender equality, strengthening the role of women in international affairs, and contributing actively to the promotion of multilateralism, the rule of law, and international law.
Representatives of more than 80 UN member states, along with legal experts, scholars, lawyers, and legal advisers attended the event, co-organized and co-sponsored by the permanent missions of Belgium, Colombia, Canada, Portugal, Mexico, and Spain, as well as the Working Group on Gender Equality at the International Court of Justice and the American Branch of the International Law Association.
