The photo exhibition “Ethnicity - Belief and Heritage” took place in Da Nang from August 15 to 17, celebrating the cultural identity of Vietnam’s ethnic groups, the diversity of religious beliefs, and reaffirming the country’s commitment to protecting human rights.

The event was co-organized by the Office of the Standing Agency for Human Rights under the Government and the People's Committee of Da Nang City.

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The exhibition was held from August 15 to 17 at An Hoi Sculpture Garden, Hoi An Ward, Da Nang City. Photo: Organizing Committee

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Colonel Nguyen Hoa Chi - Deputy Director General of the Department of Foreign Affairs under the Ministry of Public Security and Deputy Chief of the Standing Agency for Human Rights - said the exhibition featured two main themes: “Religion - Belief” and “Vietnam’s Ethnic Communities.” It aimed to honor the spiritual and cultural heritage of Vietnam’s diverse population.

Hundreds of remarkable photographic works highlighted the rich and diverse spiritual life of ethnic communities across the nation. From sacred rituals such as Vesak, the Holy Mother Worship Ceremony at Dieu Tri Palace, and the Tam Phu Mother Goddess worship, to folk festivals and traditional customs such as the Thai Xoe dance, the Ghe Ngo boat race, the Red Dao wedding ceremony, and the traditional brocade weaving of the Xa Phang people.

Each image serves as an authentic snapshot, revealing the cultural depth, yearning for peace, and spirit of unity among the Vietnamese people. The exhibition stands as powerful evidence of the humane and consistent policies of the Communist Party and the State in safeguarding human rights - especially freedom of belief and religion and the right to development for ethnic minorities.
The exhibition drew great interest from both local and international audiences. Photo: Organizing Committee

The artistic works on display also tell deeply human stories, portraying a unified Vietnam that embraces diversity, respects differences, and works alongside its people to build a just, democratic, and civilized society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

“I especially hope that the younger generation - those who will carry forward the nation's future - find pride, understanding, and inspiration from this exhibition to preserve cultural heritage as a vital part of our national identity and civic responsibility,” said Colonel Nguyen Hoa Chi.

The “Ethnicity - Faith and Heritage” photo exhibition has been praised as a meaningful cultural initiative with profound political and social impact, contributing to the global promotion of Vietnam’s image during its tenure as a member of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) for the 2023–2025 term and in its official candidacy for the 2026–2028 term.

The exhibition was open to the public free of charge.

As a UNHRC member from 2023 to 2025, Vietnam continues to affirm its role as a responsible and active nation, making substantial contributions to the international community. The country remains steadfast in pursuing a comprehensive approach to human rights, striving to balance civil and political rights with economic, social, cultural, and environmental rights.

Vietnam consistently respects and protects the right to freedom of belief and religion for all citizens, while promoting development for ethnic minority communities, ensuring equality, inclusion, and leaving no one behind.

Looking ahead to the 2026–2028 term, Vietnam has officially announced its candidacy for re-election to the UN Human Rights Council, further underscoring its strong commitment to advancing human rights based on cultural diversity, sustainable development, and social justice.

Binh Minh