Tô Lâm, the General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee and President, has been awarded the 2026 Lev N. Tolstoy International Peace Prize. The accolade celebrates his significant contributions to fostering peace and bolstering international cooperation. The award jury, composed of distinguished members from around the globe, unanimously chose Tô Lâm for this honor, recognizing his efforts to enhance dialogue and partnership among countries.
Valery Gergiev, the chairman of the jury and a prominent figure in Russian arts, highlighted Vietnam’s impressive economic growth alongside its steadfast commitment to cultural heritage during the announcement. The jury commended Tô Lâm’s pivotal role in Vietnam’s development trajectory, his advocacy for global justice, adherence to international law, and promotion of peaceful international relations.
Other notable jury members, including Vladimir Tolstoy, a descendant of the legendary writer Leo Tolstoy and director of the State Museum of L.N. Tolstoy, as well as French public figure Pierre de Gaulle and South African parliamentarian Lindiwe Sisulu, underscored the enduring relevance of the humanitarian values championed by Tolstoy. They lauded Vietnam’s evolution from a war-torn nation to one of the fastest-growing economies in the Asia-Pacific region, portraying it as a beacon of hope for countries striving for peace and sustainable advancement.
The Lev N. Tolstoy International Peace Prize, now in its third edition, is bestowed upon individuals who have made outstanding contributions to peace and international understanding. The selection process is overseen by an international council that includes eminent political, cultural, and public figures from countries such as Argentina, Belarus, China, France, India, Japan, Russia, and South Africa. This prestigious recognition highlights the global impact of Tô Lâm’s work in promoting harmony and cooperation across borders.