Protecting human rights through trade: lessons from the EU–Vietnam Free Trade Agreement

The EU–Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) marks a significant milestone in Vietnam’s trade policy, integrating human rights protection alongside economic objectives. Ratified in 2020, the EVFTA requires Vietnam to align its legal framework with international standards. This paper examines the EVFTA’s human rights mechanisms through two key questions: the effectiveness of the agreement in promoting human rights alongside economic development and the extent of Vietnam’s legislative adaptations to fulfil its obligations. Using a doctrinal methodology, the study finds that, despite substantial legal reforms, enforcement remains weak due to legal inconsistencies and governance challenges. To enhance compliance, the paper recommends internalization of treaty obligations, legal reforms, improved stakeholder coordination and greater transparency to strengthen human rights protection under the EVFTA.