Advancing Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment in Vietnam
The Vice Chairwoman of the National Assembly (NA), Nguyen Thi Thanh, emphasized Vietnam’s unwavering commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment during a meeting held on March 4 in Hanoi. This session included discussions with Caroline Nyamayemombe, the UN Women Representative in Vietnam, and Michaela Bauer, the UNICEF Deputy Representative in Vietnam.
Strengthening Collaborations
During the meeting, Thanh praised the effective partnership between UN Women and Vietnam, particularly in crafting and executing policies aimed at achieving gender equality and addressing gender-based violence.
Commitment to Gender Equality
Thanh reaffirmed Vietnam’s commitment to enhancing gender equality and empowering women. She highlighted ongoing efforts by the NA and Government to refine legal frameworks and incorporate gender equality into various socio-economic policies, strategies, and initiatives.
International Engagement
Starting January 1, 2025, Vietnam will officially participate as a member of the UN Women Executive Board for the 2025-2027 term, underscoring the nation’s intent to actively engage in shaping UN Women’s programs that align with the objectives of UN member states, particularly focusing on the Sustainable Development Goals.
Progress and Challenges
Vietnam has made significant strides in increasing women’s participation in leadership roles, with women now holding over 30% of the NA seats. Nonetheless, Thanh acknowledged persistent challenges, notably in improving educational and employment opportunities for women and girls, especially those located in rural and disadvantaged regions.
Upcoming Participation at CSW69
Thanh is set to participate in the 69th session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69) in New York on March 10, where she will advocate for measures to accelerate the implementation of the 1995 Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. She aims to showcase Vietnam’s accomplishments and share valuable experiences regarding gender equality and the advancement of women’s rights.
Collaboration with UN Women
The legislator urged UN Women to continue its close partnership with the Vietnamese Government through the UN Women’s Strategy Note for Vietnam for 2022-2026. She called on the organization to prioritize initiatives that empower Vietnamese women through access to science and technology and to enhance their readiness for quality job opportunities.
Support from UNICEF
Recognizing UNICEF as a crucial development ally, Thanh acknowledged its contributions to child protection and welfare in Vietnam. She encouraged UNICEF to mobilize resources to better support Vietnamese children, particularly those living in climate-vulnerable and underserved areas, while also boosting policy advice and capacity building for professionals in child-focused sectors.
Global Goals for Gender Equality
Both Nyamayemombe and Bauer expressed their appreciation for Vietnam’s dedication to gender equality and child protection, noting the reflection of this commitment in national policies and programs. They emphasized the importance of the CSW69 in establishing bold global objectives for gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls.
Fostering Inclusive Environments
With confidence in the Vietnamese delegation led by Thanh, they anticipate fruitful discussions at CSW69 on critical issues such as promoting gender equality in government, developing national action plans to combat violence against women, supporting transitions to green economies, and ensuring equitable access to technology and economic opportunities for women.
Nyamayemombe expressed hope that Vietnam will lead efforts for global policy changes that pave the way for a more inclusive environment for women in science, technology, and innovation, ensuring that women and girls not only engage with technology but also lead and shape its future.
