The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism on May 21, in collaboration with Vietnam Television (VTV) and the Vietnam Association of Photographic Artists, officially launched the “Happy Vietnam 2026” award, a communication initiative highlighting human rights achievements in Vietnam.
According to the Organizing Committee, as Vietnam continues to pursue sustainable development, deepen international integration, and place people at the center of all policies, the 2026 edition of the awards aims to discover, honor, and promote the positive values of society while showcasing the country’s achievements in protecting and advancing human rights across all fields.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Trinh Thi Thuy stated that “Happy Vietnam 2026” award is not merely a communications campaign or a creative arts competition, but also an important component in building a positive information ecosystem for Vietnam in the global digital environment.
“We have always affirmed that the greatest strength lies in the people, and the greatest creativity also comes from the people. When millions of positive stories are shared and spread simultaneously, we are not only promoting the image of our country, but also helping to strengthen social trust, enhance consensus, elevate national prestige, and proactively counter false and distorted information about Vietnam in the international arena”, she said.
Under the theme “Happiness from Simple Things,” this year’s competition will continue to be organized nationwide and feature two categories including photography and video. The competition is open to Vietnamese citizens and foreign nationals aged 15 and above. Entries must be authentic, demonstrate artistic and communication value, clearly reflect Vietnam’s development achievements, and convey positive and humane messages capable of inspiring broad social engagement.
The submission period runs from now until August 31, 2026. Entries can be submitted online via https://happy.vietnam.vn and will be evaluated through preliminary and final judging rounds.
The judging panel will comprise leading experts, journalists, photographers, and filmmakers, ensuring objectivity, transparency, and professional excellence. The award ceremony is expected to take place in the fourth quarter of 2026 in Hanoi.
Prize structure of the “Happy Vietnam 2026” award
For each competition category (Photography and video), the following prizes will be awarded:
- 1 First Prize: VND 50 million
- 2 Second Prizes: VND 30 million each
- 3 Third Prizes: VND 15 million each
- 10 Consolation Prizes: VND 5 million each
- 1 Most Popular Entry Award: VND 5 million
- 1 Creativity Award in each category (photography and video): VND 20 million
In addition, the Organizing Committee will present monthly awards, including First, Second, and Third Prizes, to entries receiving the highest number of public votes in each category during the month.
The awards are expected to serve as a platform for individuals both in Vietnam and abroad to share meaningful stories and vivid images that reflect the everyday happiness, resilience, creativity, and aspirations of the Vietnamese people, thereby contributing to a fuller and more authentic portrayal of a peaceful, dynamic, and people-centered Vietnam.