Brian Jeffrey
Significance of New Appointment in UN Peacekeeping
The Ministry of Public Security’s Permanent Office has announced an important appointment related to United Nations peacekeeping efforts.
Lieutenant Colonel Hai has been selected for a key role within the UN Police Division, a position traditionally held by long-serving UN personnel. His selection highlights the UN’s acknowledgment of his skills and contributions.
Role and Responsibilities
As the Acting Special Assistant and Chief of Staff, Lieutenant Colonel Hai plays a critical role in managing activities within the Office of the Police Adviser. His responsibilities involve reviewing documents from various departments prior to their submission to the Police Adviser, scheduling tasks for both the Police Adviser and Deputy Police Adviser, and acting as the official spokesperson.
Furthermore, he acts as the key representative between the UN Police Division and higher authority offices, including those of the Assistant Secretary-General and the Deputy Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations. Additionally, he manages official communications for the UN Police, which include a website and social media channels like Twitter and Facebook.
Career Highlights
Lieutenant Colonel Hai’s professional journey spans 17 years at the People’s Police Academy, where he developed skills vital for his current position. In 2022, he made history as the first Vietnamese police officer to join the UN Police Division in New York.
His specialization in tackling organized and transnational crime helped him excel among nearly 200 applicants worldwide in a rigorous selection process. Following two years of outstanding service, his tenure was extended in August 2024, and in January 2025, he was appointed as Acting Special Assistant and Chief of Staff to the Police Adviser.
Reporting to Police Adviser Faisal Shahkar, who is also the Director of the UN Police Division, Lieutenant Colonel Hai’s duties include strategic policy development and management of missions and recruitment processes, underscoring his vital role within the organization.
This achievement signifies not only a personal milestone for Lieutenant Colonel Hai but also highlights the increasing capabilities of Vietnamese police officers within international peacekeeping efforts. His success embodies Vietnam’s dedication to contributing effectively to global peace and security initiatives.
