Tô Lâm, serving as General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee and President, has been honored with the Lev N. Tolstoy International Peace Prize for 2026. This accolade highlights his significant contributions to fostering peace and international cooperation. The decision was made unanimously by the international jury, which applauded Tô Lâm’s dedication to enhancing dialogue and collaboration among nations.
Valery Gergiev, the jury chairman and General Director of the Bolshoi Theatre, announced the award while commending Vietnam’s impressive economic growth. Gergiev also noted Vietnam’s ability to maintain its cultural identity in the face of global integration. The jury credited Tô Lâm with promoting Vietnam’s development on the world stage and advocating for global justice, respect for international law, and peaceful international relations.
Other jury members included Vladimir Tolstoy, a descendant of the eminent Russian writer Leo Tolstoy and Director General of the State Museum of L.N. Tolstoy, along with French public figure Pierre de Gaulle and South African parliamentarian Lindiwe Sisulu. They emphasized the importance of upholding the humanitarian values that Leo Tolstoy championed. The jury also praised Vietnam’s transformation from a war-torn country to a rapidly growing economy in the Asia-Pacific, seeing it as a beacon of inspiration for countries seeking peace and sustainable progress.
This is the third time the Lev N. Tolstoy International Peace Prize has been awarded. It celebrates individuals who have made notable contributions to peace and understanding on an international level. The laureate is chosen by an international council, which includes distinguished political, cultural, and public figures from countries such as Argentina, Belarus, China, France, India, Japan, Russia, and South Africa.