Vietnam succesfully holds Un Vesak 2025, emphasizing Buddhism's significance in the modern world

A Roaring Celebration of Unity, Peace, and Religious Freedom

Witnessing the crushing waves of the HCM City shore, Buddhist faithful and international delegates gathered to commemorate the United Nations Day of Vesak 2025. Spanning from May 6 to 8, this momentous occasion showcased the growing significance of Buddhism on the global stage.

This year's Vesak carried a weight of importance, coupling with Vietnam's 50th anniversary of national reunification (April 30, 1975) and its 80th National Day (September 2, 1945). Embracing the theme "Solidarity and Tolerance for Human Dignity: Buddhist Wisdom for World Peace and Sustainable Development," the event brought together over 2,700 participants, over 1,350 of them hailing from 85 countries and territories.

| || --- || Deputy PM Nguyen Hoa Binh in attendance at UN Vesak 2025, pledging Vietnam's commitment to religious freedom and global peace. Photo credit: nld.com.vn |

A Symphony of Faith and Tolerance

The Deputy Prime Minister Nguyễn Hòa Bình attends UN Vesak 2025, reaffirming Việt Na's commitment to religious freedom and global peace. Photo nld.com.vn

Vietnam boasts a rich tapestry of religious diversity, with multiple faiths coexisting in a vibrant symphony of harmony. This harmonious coexistence includes Buddhism, Catholicism, Protestantism, Islam, and indigenous beliefs.

The constitution explicitly supports this diversity, guaranteeing freedom of belief and the right for citizens to freely choose their religion. The constitutional rights are further solidified by a comprehensive legal framework, consisting of the Law on Belief and Religion, which clearly outlines the guidelines for religious activities, registration, and the recognition of religious organizations.

At the very heart of Vesak 2025, the spirit of religious freedom was not mere rhetoric but a tangible force connecting thousands of people. Thousands flocked to the Thanh Tâm Pagoda for the sacred enshrinement of Buddha's relics, a powerful symbol of peace and compassion.

As the relics were reverently transported to Bà Đen Mountain in Tây Ninh Province, followers persisted in their spiritual journey.

Monks from both Việt Nam and abroad participate in sacred Buddhist rituals at UN Vesak 2025, symbolising unity and peace. - VNS Photo Văn Châu

During the climactic closing ceremony, Most Venerable Thích Thanh Nhiễu, Standing Vice Chairman of the Executive Council of the Việt Nam Buddhist Sangha, emphasised the importance of solidarity and tolerance as the core principles of Buddhism. He emphasised that these values aren't merely philosophical ideals; they are dynamic forces that foster happiness within communities and serve as the foundation for sustainable development and global harmony.

Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Hoa Binh, in his address, unequivocally affirmed Vietnam's steadfast commitment to religious freedom, a fundamental human right that is deeply rooted in the nation's constitution. "Vietnam respects and cherishes the freedom of belief and religion for all," stated the Deputy PM, "Our society flourishes in the principles of equality, tolerance, and mutual respect."

He went on to acknowledge the resounding success of Vesak 2025 as a powerful testament to Vietnam's dedication to fostering interfaith harmony, both domestically and globally.

UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay extended her congratulations on the event, praising Vesak as a vibrant symbol of cultural dialogue and understanding in an ever-evolving world. "In a world fraught with division, Vesak stands as a beacon of unity, embodying compassion, understanding, and respect for all."

John Smith, a religious studies professor from Australia, expresses his admiration for how Việt Nam practices religious freedom and ensures fair treatment of all beliefs. VNS Photo Văn Châu

| || --- || Monks from both Vietnam and overseas participate in energetic Buddhist rituals, symbolizing the unity and peace at UN Vesak 2025 - VNS Photo Văn Châu |

International Perceptions of Vietnam's Religious Freedom

In an exclusive interview with Việt Nam News, three prestigious international delegates disclosed their thoughts on religious freedom, solidarity, and the role of Buddhism in modern society during the United Nations Vesak 2025 celebrations in HCM City.

Their reflections offered a deeper understanding of how Vietnam's commitment to religious tolerance is viewed internationally and how the nation has become a blueprint for creating peace and mutual respect among diverse belief systems.

Priya Nair, a social activist from India, shares her thoughts on Việt Nam's strength in building a multi-faith society based on peace and unity. - VNS Photo Văn Châu

John Smith, a scholar of religious studies from Australia, spoke passionately about his experiences during the event. "Vietnam's policy on religious freedom is truly inspiring," gushed Smith, "It's not just paperwork; it's a tangible reality that I have personally witnessed throughout the event. The fact that people from all backgrounds can come together in harmony to celebrate this meaningful occasion reflects the true depth of Vietnam's commitment to inclusivity."

| || --- || John Smith, a religious studies professor from Australia, extols Vietnam's example of religious freedom and respect for all faiths. VNS Photo Văn Châu |

He went on to emphasise how the event itself was a living demonstration of religious freedom, with Buddhists, Christians, Hindus, and those from various other faiths participating actively and in perfect harmony.

"What's most astounding is how Vietnam demonstrates that religious diversity is not a challenge, but a strength to be embraced," said Smith. "It's a rare example of genuine religious pluralism in action."

our websiteese and international monks join together in prayer for world peace, showcasing a shared commitment to a fairer and more sustainable world.

Priya Nair, a prominent Indian social activist who spent years involved in interfaith dialogue and community development, echoed Smith's sentiments. She reinforced the importance of tolerance as a means for social cohesion.

"Vietnam showcases that diversity in religion is not something to be feared, but a strength to celebrate," Nair shared. "The spirit of tolerance and compassion here goes beyond the pages of history books, permeating everyday interactions between people. There is harmony, respect, and mutual understanding amidst the thriving tapestry of different beliefs."

Reflecting on a broader international context, she continued, "In today's world, where religious conflict dominates headlines, Vietnam presents a ray of hope. The spirit of solidarity I witnessed here can serve as a model for nations aiming to bridge divisions within diverse religious communities."

| || --- || Priya Nair, a social activist from India, reflects on the power of Vietnam's example of social cohesion and inclusivity. - VNS Photo Văn Châu |

Dr. Karim El-Mansouri, an expert on interfaith dialogue from Egypt, was equally captivated by Vietnam's ability to foster an environment that supports diverse religious groups.

"What stands out to me is Vietnam’s capacity to establish a welcoming atmosphere where diverse faiths coexist in harmony," said El-Mansouri. "The ability to welcome thousands of people from various religious backgrounds without any conflict is an extraordinary accomplishment."

He further highlighted the role of the government in creating a conducive environment for religious dialogue, viewing it as essential for national prosperity.

"In many parts of the world, dialogue between religious communities is a challenge. But in Vietnam, efforts to foster this dialogue are embedded in the very fabric of society. This is a crucial lesson for nations grappling with questions of religious intolerance."

The delegates' reflections reveal a vivid picture of Vietnam's approach to religious freedom and unity, sparking global admiration and serving as a model for fostering peace and mutual respect among diverse belief systems.

Their observations underscored that Vietnam's model of embracing religious diversity, anchored in the philosophies of Buddhism, extends beyond both policy and ideology, shaping the daily lives of its citizens in profound and inspiring ways.

The success of Vesak 2025 serves as a powerful testament to Vietnam's commitment to fostering genuine religious freedom and unity, paving the way for a world that appreciates and embraces diversity.

The government supports and guarantees freedom of belief in Vietnam, protecting the right for citizens to freely choose their religion through a comprehensive legal framework, including the Law on Belief and Religion.
With a rich tapestry of religious diversity, Buddhism, Catholicism, Protestantism, Islam, and indigenous beliefs coexist harmoniously in Vietnam, creating a symphony of faith and tolerance.
The significance of Buddhism amplified during the United Nations Day of Vesak 2025, where over 2,700 participants from 85 countries and territories gathered to celebrate religious freedom, peace, and unity.
At this momentous occasion, Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Hoa Binh affirmed Vietnam's commitment to religious freedom, solidarity, and global peace, echoing the theme "Solidarity and Tolerance for Human Dignity."
During the event, international delegates praised Vietnam's approach to fostering religious pluralism and reframing religious diversity as a strength to be celebrated.
In an ever-evolving world, Vietnam has become a beacon of unity, embodying compassion, understanding, and respect for all, especially important in a world fraught with division.
The spirit of solidarity and tolerance permeated the event, showcasing the power of Buddhist wisdom for sustainable development and global harmony.
Several government policies support Vietnam's commitment to religious freedom and diversity-and-inclusion, including initiatives in education, business, and finance to ensure equal opportunities and fair treatment for all.
The celebration of Vesak 2025 demonstrated Vietnam's dedication to education-and-self-development, learning, and fostering interfaith harmony, both domestically and globally.
The success of Vesak 2025 sparked congratulatory messages from organizations like UNESCO, acknowledging it as a vibrant symbol of cultural dialogue and understanding in an ever-evolving world.

Vietnam succesfully holds Un Vesak 2025, emphasizing Buddhism's significance in the modern world