The opening for signature of the United Nations Convention against cybercrime in Hanoi on October 25-26 (Hanoi Convention) marks a historic milestone, not only in the realm of international law but also in Vietnam’s growing stature and credibility in the international arena.

The United
Nations’ decision to select Vietnam as the host of the signing ceremony of the UN Convention against Cybercrime  reflects the trust and recognition of the international community in the nation’s active and constructive role in global affairs. It also signals
Vietnam’s transformation from a country that primarily participates in international
mechanisms to one that contributes ideas, initiatives, and leadership to shape
them.

From the “bamboo diplomacy” to the soft power of trust

According to Dr. Tran Hai Linh,
Member of the Central Committee of the Vietnam Fatherland Front and Chairman of
the Vietnam – Korea Business and Investment Association (VKBIA), the Hanoi
Convention “demonstrates Vietnam’s diplomatic resilience and deep integration
capacity as the country becomes a reliable bridge of dialogue and trust in
global cyber governance.”

In a world divided by different  views on cybersecurity, digital sovereignty, and data privacy, Vietnam has
distinguished itself as a consensus – builder and honest broker that can bridge gaps
between developed and developing countries and reconcile diverse interests.

Through its “Bamboo
Diplomacy” philosophy – deeply rooted, flexible, and resilient,  Vietnam has shown an
ability to lead through trust. Instead of confrontation or imposition, the
country fosters dialogue, cooperation, and shared responsibility under the
principle that cybersecurity is a common good of humankind.

As the host and co – chair of
multiple key negotiation sessions, Vietnam has contributed to shaping a new
model of multilateral dialogue – one that is respectful, pragmatic, and based
on mutual benefit. Such an approach is essential in today’s interconnected
digital world, where transnational cyber threats transcend traditional borders.

The Hanoi Convention – a symbol of cooperation and global responsibility

The United Nations General
Assembly adopted the Hanoi Convention by consensus in December 2024 (New York
time). The decision to open it for signature in Vietnam in 2025 effectively
turns Hanoi into the “Capital of Digital Dialogue” and underscores Vietnam’s
growing role in shaping the global legal framework for cyberspace.

According to Dr. Tran Hai Linh,
the Hanoi Convention carries three major implications:

First, it reaffirms Vietnam’s standing in multilateral diplomacy,
 demonstrating that the country is not only an implementer but also a
creator of international policy frameworks.

Second, it opens up opportunities for international legal cooperation in
combating high – tech crimes, protecting personal data, and addressing cross –
border digital challenges.

Third, it embodies a spirit of global responsibility, with the name “Hanoi”
symbolizing the country’s commitment to building a safe, transparent, and
sustainable digital future.

The event also aligns with
Vietnam’s foreign policy vision of being “self-reliant, proactive, positive,
and deeply integrated into the global community.” It underscores Vietnam’s
commitment to building a fair and human – centered digital order.

Balancing power in a time of global geopolitical competition

The fact that Vietnam hosts the signing ceremony of the Hanoi Convention, in the context of intensifying competition for influence among major powers, reflects its consistent foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, peace, friendship, cooperation and development, multilateralization and diversification, in combination with comprehensive and effective international integration. 

Vietnam does not align with any
particular bloc or power. Instead, it prioritizes  a safer and more trustworthy cyberspace for the common benefits of the international community.

Throughout the negotiation
process, Vietnam’s calm, consistent, and flexible diplomacy helped maintain
open and constructive dialogue, thus preventing the Convention from becoming a tool
of political competition.

By skillfully applying the
philosophy of “Bamboo Diplomacy”- strong roots, flexible stance, far – reaching
branches – Vietnam has successfully protected its national interests while
contributing to global security.

This balanced and credible
approach has positioned Vietnam as a “center of trust” –  a country where
diverse partners can meet, discuss, and seek common ground on sensitive global
issues such as cybersecurity.

The Hanoi Convention – a lesson for multilateral cooperation in the digital age

The successful negotiation of the
Hanoi Convention serves as a model for inclusive and equal multilateral
dialogue. Beyond establishing a legal framework for investigation, extradition,
and information – sharing in cybercrime cases, the Convention also emphasizes
human rights, data privacy, and digital sovereignty – the basic principles of a transparent and humane digital order.

Regarding the Asia – Pacific region,
where digital transformation is accelerating but cyber risks are also rising,
the Hanoi Convention provides a crucial platform for legal and technical
coordination, strengthening regional trust and resilience.

Moreover, the consensus achieved
during the negotiations offers valuable lessons for other global initiatives:
only through equal dialogue, mutual respect, and shared benefit can nations
with different systems and values reach genuine unity.

Vietnam’s role as a convener and
consensus – builder demonstrates that even a developing nation can help bridge
the divide between big powers and smaller countries, fostering cooperation
instead of confrontation.

From signing to action: Vietnam’s next steps after the Hanoi Convention

To maintain its leadership and
sustain influence in the post-signing phase, Vietnam must move quickly from
symbolic commitment to substantive implementation. Dr. Tran Hai Linh proposes
seven strategic directions for Vietnam to turn the Convention into reality:

1. Develop a comprehensive
national legal framework aligned with the Convention, clarifying
responsibilities among ministries, local authorities, and businesses.

2.  Strengthen enforcement capacity, including specialized training for
investigators, prosecutors, and judges on cybercrime; establish and fund
national and local Computer Emergency Response Teams (CERTs).

3. Promote public – private
partnerships (PPP) by organizing regular dialogues between government,
businesses, academia, and society to share early warnings and coordinate
responses.

4.     Establish a Cybersecurity Center of Excellence in Hanoi, potentially
linked with partners in South Korea, Japan, the EU, or ASEAN+, serving as a regional
hub for research, training, and cooperation.

5.     Expand bilateral and regional technical cooperation programs with advanced
partners such as South Korea, the United States, Japan, and the EU.

6.     Support SMEs and critical infrastructure sectors (energy, healthcare,
finance) through technical assistance, training, and risk – assessment programs.

7.     Ensure transparency and accountability by developing measurable indicators
to monitor progress – such as international cooperation cases, response times,
and CERT capacity – and publishing regular reports to enhance global trust.

Alongside these steps, Vietnam
should strengthen strategic communication and digital diplomacy, hosting
international conferences, publishing cooperation initiatives, and maintaining
momentum to assert its role as a “trust-based leader.”

A new position in the global digital landscape

Ultimately, the Hanoi Convention
is not merely a legal document – it is a symbol of Vietnam’s evolving global
identity in the digital era. From being a “player” in international
mechanisms, Vietnam has become a “rule-maker”, helping shape a more just,
secure, and sustainable digital future.

In an age where data and
technology are strategic resources, the Convention reaffirms Vietnam’s
commitment to being a confident, proactive, and responsible global actor –
ready to work with the world for a safer, more human – centered, and prosperous digital
future.

Báo Nhân dân-Khanh Lan (from Nhandan newspaper)