{"id":6247,"date":"2025-10-28T17:50:00","date_gmt":"2025-10-28T15:50:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/europeanbuddhistunion.com\/?p=6247"},"modified":"2026-10-19T11:38:07","modified_gmt":"2026-10-19T09:38:07","slug":"ebu-at-undv-2025-vietnam","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/europeanbuddhistunion.com\/it\/ebu-at-undv-2025-vietnam\/","title":{"rendered":"EBU at UNDV 2025 \u00b7 Vietnam"},"content":{"rendered":"

By Carlotta Segre<\/p>

Unity and tolerance for human dignity, Buddhist wisdom for world peace and sustainable development<\/em> \u2014 this was the spirit of the 2025 United Nations Day of Vesak (UNDV), which the EBU attended in Vietnam.<\/p>\n\n

The 2025 Vesak Celebration opening ceremony took place at the Vietnam Buddhist University in Ho Chi Minh City on 6 May 2025, under the theme \u201cUnity and Inclusive for Human Dignity, World Peace and Sustainable Development.\u201d This year\u2019s celebration was held on the momentous occasion of the 20th anniversary of Vesak\u2019s recognition as an international day of observance by the United Nations.<\/p>\n\n

A message from the United Nations<\/h2>\n\n

As stated by Ant\u00f3nio Guterres, Secretary-General of the UN, in his message:<\/p>\n\n

Buddha\u2019s teaching of compassion, tolerance and selfless service resonate deeply with the values of the United Nations. In an era of global challenge these timeless principles must guide our shared path forward. As we honour this sacred occasion, may we be inspired to bridge divides, foster solidarity and work together toward a more peaceful, sustainable and harmonious world.<\/p>Ant\u00f3nio Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n

Vietnam has previously hosted the 2008, 2014 and 2019 events; this year was especially meaningful, taking place shortly after the commemorations of the 50th anniversary of national reunification \u2014 a milestone marking the Vietnamese people\u2019s full attainment of independence and peace.<\/p>\n\n

Thousands gathered for peace<\/h2>\n\n

The celebrations attracted 2,700 delegates, including 1,300 international delegates, Buddhist scholars and intellectuals from 85 countries and territories. On the evening of 6 May, a ceremony of prayer for world peace and people\u2019s well-being took place at the Vietnam Buddhist Academy. The event drew approximately 12,000 participants, with 35,000 lanterns lit, creating a radiant atmosphere. Together with a vast assembly of monastics, lay Buddhists and local people, the delegates witnessed the incense-offering ceremony \u2014 more than a spiritual activity, the festival conveyed a profound message of unity, loving-kindness and a call for peace for all humanity.<\/p>\n\n

On 7 May the 2025 Vesak entered its second day of activities \u2014 coordinated by the International Council for the Day of Vesak (ICDV) \u2014 with messages and speeches from leaders of international Buddhist organizations, heads of Buddhist traditions, and esteemed scholars from around the world.<\/p>\n\n

Academic sessions and sacred relics<\/h2>\n\n

On the afternoon of the 7th, academic sessions addressed urgent global concerns, following the event\u2019s sub-topics:<\/p>\n\n