In Memoriam: Madame Tran Thi Thanh Thanh, a Visionary Advocate for Children’s Rights in Viet Nam
UNICEF wishes to extend its heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Madame Tran Thi Thanh Thanh and express its deepest gratitude for the privilege of working side by side with such an inspirational figure
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UNICEF wishes to extend its heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Madame Tran Thi Thanh Thanh and express its deepest gratitude for the privilege of working side by side with such an inspirational figure. As Minister and Chairwoman of the Committee for the Protection and Care of Children (CPCC), a ministry-level institution that was established to advise the government on all child-related issues and to coordinate and monitor the implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), Madame Thanh Thanh was a tireless advocate for child rights, with impressive advocacy efforts supporting the Communist Party, the National Assembly, and other government agencies.
Throughout CPCC's decade-long existence (1992-2022), UNICEF stood with and supported a journey to develop and implement the first-ever National Plan of Action for Children, establish child and family policies, and initiate the Provincial Programmes of Action for Children. The successful efforts were fuelled by a shared vision: to ensure the realization of children's rights, to progressively enhance their wellbeing and to ensure every child, regardless of where they live, into which family they are born, has the best possible start in life, the best possible healthcare, nutrition, education, protection, water and sanitation. More than an investment to Viet Nam’s economic prosperity in the future – the goals set and achieved – spoke to the dignity of every child, to the values of a society where every child would receive quality care and protection and have every opportunity possible to thrive and embrace their dreams.
Madame Thanh Thanh’s progressive spirit was evident in her drive to establish the Viet Nam Association for Protection of Children’s Rights. As its first Chairwoman, her dedication was unique, and we at UNICEF were honored to support her in shaping the strategy and vision for the NGOs committed to safeguarding children’s rights in Viet Nam. Her efforts were instrumental in a vision where all children in the country enjoy their basic rights and live free from the violation of these rights.
Madame Thanh Thanh was a strong advocate and a visionary. Her wisdom and dedication to the realization of child rights in Viet Nam is incredibly inspiring and remains a beacon for all to follow. Thanks to her hard work, vision, and dedication, countless generations of Vietnamese children have been able to enjoy their rights. Very few achieve such impact, even fewer leave a legacy that continues to motivate, to guide and to demand that we do more, do better, strive harder to uphold the rights of children everywhere. UNICEF commits to continue this journey, to hold her close to our hearts and to be guided by her wisdom and passion.
