Tô Lâm, the General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee and President, has been honored with the 2026 Lev N. Tolstoy International Peace Prize. This recognition is for his significant contributions to fostering peace and international cooperation. The decision to award Tô Lâm was unanimous among the international jury, who highlighted his efforts in enhancing dialogue and cooperation among nations.
Valery Gergiev, the jury chairman and General Director of the Bolshoi Theatre as well as Artistic Director of the Mariinsky Theatre, announced the decision. He praised Vietnam’s remarkable economic growth while maintaining its cultural heritage despite the pressures of global integration. The selection of Tô Lâm for this esteemed award also reflects his active role in promoting Vietnam’s development, advocating for global justice, upholding international law, and encouraging peaceful dialogue in international affairs.
Other jury members, such as Vladimir Tolstoy, Director General of the State Museum of L.N. Tolstoy and a descendant of the famous Russian writer Leo Tolstoy, along with French public figure Pierre de Gaulle and South African parliamentarian Lindiwe Sisulu, underscored the importance of preserving the humanitarian values that Tolstoy championed. They commended Vietnam’s transformation from a war-torn nation to one of the fastest-growing economies in the Asia-Pacific region, considering it an inspiration for other countries striving for peace and sustainable development.
The Lev N. Tolstoy International Peace Prize, now in its third edition, is awarded to individuals who have made substantial contributions to peace and international understanding. The selection of the laureate is carried out by an international council composed of prominent figures in politics, culture, and public life from countries including Argentina, Belarus, China, France, India, Japan, Russia, and South Africa.