A/HRC/17/34/Add.1 implement a human rights-based approach to social protection and poverty reduction in the country. The independent expert calls on Viet Nam to substantially increase investment in social protection, recalling that the duty to implement social protection policies flows directly from a number of human rights principles. She applauds the outline of a comprehensive strategy for the expansion of social security in the country. Given the limited protection of the population by formal insurance schemes, there is a particular need to increase support to social assistance mechanisms. Investing in social protection is not only crucial to lift individuals out of poverty, but also helps to protect all of those that could be affected by future economic crises or natural disasters. The report also highlights the importance of ensuring that financial costs are not imposed on persons living in extreme poverty when accessing basic health care and education. 2