United Nations in Viet Nam

The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth's environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in Viet Nam.

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31 March 2025

2024 United Nations in Viet Nam Annual Results Report

The UN Viet Nam Annual Results Report 2024 highlights the UN Country Team's collective results in supporting Viet Nam’s acceleration of the SDGs and implementation of national development goals amid global transitions, economic shifts, and climate challenges. Three years into the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2022-2026, the UN has provided policy expertise, international experience, capacity building, service delivery, humanitarian support, and resource mobilization. Looking ahead, the UN remains committed to fostering inclusive, sustainable development and resilience in Viet Nam.

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24 July 2025

Op-ed: Viet Nam’s Just Energy Transition Stands at A Defining Moment, with Global Leadership within Reach

This year marks a pivotal milestone for global cooperation. We commemorate 80 years since the founding of the United Nations (UN) and reflect on a decade since the Paris Agreement under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). It is also nearly 80 years since President Ho Chi Minh proclaimed Viet Nam’s independence in Hanoi on 2 September 1945. These moments are not just anniversaries – they represent a common ambition. They are reminders that real progress is possible when countries work together on shared, complex challenges. They also reflect a long-term commitment to building more peaceful, resilient, and inclusive societies.As global attention turns to the 80th Session of the UN General Assembly, the UN Secretary-General issued a clear and urgent message: “Countries that cling to fossil fuels are not protecting their economies - they are sabotaging them. Driving up costs, undermining competitiveness, locking in stranded assets, and missing the greatest economic opportunity of the 21st century. Renewables are here to stay because they are the foundation of energy security and sovereignty.”Viet Nam stands at the heart of that opportunity. Two and a half years since the Political Declaration on the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) was announced, Viet Nam is moving from ambition to action. Major policy reforms are advancing, including the updated Electricity Law, the revised Power Development Plan VIII, and new regulations on direct power purchase agreements and the self-consumption of solar power. These reforms are laying the foundation for cleaner energy, economic diversification, and long-term energy security.Equally significant is Viet Nam’s progress on implementation. Seventeen JETP-aligned projects have been screened and agreed through a joint process involving the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MOIT), as Standing Agency of the JETP Secretariat, alongside co-leads of the International Partners Group (IPG) and the Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net Zero (GFANZ) Secretariat, with support from UNDP in its role as Secretariat Support Agency (SSA). Together, they represent a little more than US$7 billion in potential investments. Of these, three projects, valued at over US$700 million, have already secured financing agreements in principle from IPG members that will expand renewable energy and grid capacity, energy storage, and improve the reliability of clean energy supply. As the next step, international partners are initiating project-level engagement to explore financing pathways. The aim is to test and refine the process through real-time learning on selected projects before scaling up.The launch of the JETP website underscores Viet Nam’s commitment to transparency and coordination. The online portal is designed to facilitate project submission and grow the pipeline of JETP-aligned projects.However, implementation demands continued effort.To sustain this momentum, stronger cross-government coordination and more enabling financial frameworks will be essential. The UN Secretary-General noted, “to unleash the full force of finance – driving investment to markets with massive potential (…) demands bold national policies, (…) and (…) to drastically increase the lending capacity of multilateral development banks, making them (…) better able to leverage massive amounts of private finance at reasonable costs”. While important progress is being made, implementation still faces practical constraints related to administrative procedures, permitting, grid integration, local capacity, as well as limited flexibility in mobilising concessional and blended finance, which must be addressed. These issues are pressing not only for energy transition goals, but also for broader national priorities, such as sustaining high GDP growth, diversifying trade partnerships, ensuring energy security, and advancing clean energy technologies to support export competitiveness.This is where global cooperation and partnerships matter. The US$15.5 billion pledged by the IPG and GFANZ members reflects strong confidence in Viet Nam’s transition. But as experiences in other JETP countries have shown, the real test lies in delivery. Concessional terms and conditions of finance, proactive cooperation, risk-sharing tools, and tailored technical assistance are essential to unlock progress on complex challenges, including coal transition.Viet Nam’s energy transition presents an opportunity to show how climate ambition can be realized through national leadership, international support, and a focus on people-centred development. Just as important is ensuring the transition protects workers and communities, promotes social dialogue and stakeholder engagement, and ensures decent work, social protection, and access to opportunities for all. In provinces such as Quang Ninh, Ninh Thuận, and Bình Thuận, energy reforms are already reshaping local economies. Workers, women, youth, and small businesses must be active participants in designing and benefiting from this shift. That means providing new skills, targeted support, and sustained dialogue with the communities most affected.The United Nations team in Viet Nam is wholly committed to supporting this process. WHO, ILO, UNESCO, UNICEF, and UNIDO are contributing to efforts that link energy reforms with health, labour protections, future-ready education, and decarbonisation of the cement sector. FAO, UNFPA and UN Women are supporting rural women, who make up 64 percent of agriculture workers and are among the hardest hit by climate disasters. These efforts include integrating prevention of gender-based violence into disaster response and supporting women’s leadership in disaster preparedness. UNDP is working with national counterparts to support the integration of just transition principles into JETP project screening, monitoring, and investment appraisal, ensuring social equity is embedded throughout implementation. UNDP is also supporting the Government, IPG and GFANZ in implementation of the JETP as the JETP SSA, leveraging the UN’s impartiality in enabling the partnership.Viet Nam’s energy transition is not only about reducing emissions. It is about advancing energy security, industrial competitiveness, and inclusive development in a rapidly changing global economy. As a G35 country, Viet Nam’s progress is being closely watched for its potential to serve as a success model of how emerging economies can align climate action with development priorities.The upcoming UNFCCC 30th Conference of Parties (COP30) in Belem, Brazil will be a defining moment – not only for global climate ambition, but also for demonstrating leadership through action. The third Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC 3.0) presents an opportunity for Viet Nam to signal its enhanced ambition, translate policy into investment-ready plans, and, as expected, incorporate JETP implementation among the contributions. A strong NDC 3.0 highlighting JETP implementation progress, strengthened sectoral emissions reduction pathways, and practical carbon pricing mechanisms would reinforce Viet Nam’s credibility as a climate leader among emerging economies.Viet Nam’s JETP is more than a financing pledge. This partnership is a platform for international cooperation and a model for how national ambition can drive global impact. The path ahead is clear: accelerate technical assistance, streamline project approvals, and deliver financing that supports just, inclusive outcomes.Progress must not be stalled by perfection – or lost to inaction.With sustained political will, coordinated international support, and a shared focus on implementation, Viet Nam can lead by example. Not just in the region, but across the Global South. The next six months will be decisive.The choices made today will shape the energy, economy, and environment of tomorrow. Let us seize this opportunity, together.

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22 July 2025

Op-Ed: “A Moment of Opportunity: Supercharging the Clean Energy Age”

Energy has shaped humanity’s path – from mastering fire, to harnessing steam, to splitting the atom. Today, we’re at the dawn of a new era. The sun is rising on a clean energy age. Last year, nearly all new power capacity came from renewables. Investment in clean energy soared to $2 trillion – $800 billion more than fossil fuels. Solar and wind are now the cheapest sources of power on Earth, and clean energy sectors are creating jobs, boosting growth and powering progress -- despite fossil fuels still receiving far greater subsidies.Countries that cling to fossil fuels are not protecting their economies, they are sabotaging them – undermining competitiveness, and missing the greatest economic opportunity of the 21st century. Clean energy also delivers energy sovereignty and security. Fossil fuel markets are at the mercy of price shocks, supply disruptions, and geopolitical turmoil, as we saw when Russia invaded Ukraine. But there are no price spikes for sunlight, no embargoes on wind, and almost every nation has enough renewable resources to be energy self-sufficient. Finally, clean energy spurs development. It can reach the hundreds of millions of people still living without electricity -- quickly, affordably and sustainably, particularly through off-grid and small-scale solar technologies.All this makes the clean energy era unstoppable. But the transition is not yet fast or fair enough. Developing countries are being left behind. Fossil fuels still dominate energy systems, and emissions are still rising when they must plummet to avoid the worst of the climate crisis. To fix this, we need action on six fronts. First, governments must fully commit to the clean energy future. In the coming months, every country has pledged to submit new national climate plans – known as Nationally Determined Contributions – with targets for the next decade. These plans must align with limiting global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius, cover all emissions and sectors, and lay out a clear path to clean energy. G20 countries, responsible for around 80% of global emissions, must lead.Second, we must build 21st century energy systems. Without modern grids and storage, renewable power can’t fulfill its potential. But for every dollar invested in renewable power, just 60 cents go to grids and storage. That ratio needs to be one- to-one. Third, governments must aim to meet the world’s surging energy demand with renewables. Major tech companies must also play their part. By 2030, data centres could consume as much electricity as Japan does today. Companies should commit to power them with renewables. Fourth, we must embed justice in the energy transition. This means supporting communities still dependent on fossil fuels to prepare for the clean energy future. And it means reforming critical minerals supply chains. Today, they’re riddled with rights abuses and environmental destruction, and developing countries are trapped at the bottom of value chains. This must end. Fifth, we must make trade a tool for energy transformation. Clean energy supply chains are highly concentrated and global trade is fragmenting. Countries committed to the new energy era must work to diversify supplies, cut tariffs on clean energy goods, and modernize investment treaties so they support the transition. Sixth and finally, we must drive finance to developing countries. Africa received just two percent of renewables investment last year, despite having 60% of the world’s best solar resources. We need international action – to prevent debt repayments sucking developing country budgets dry, and to enable multilateral development banks to substantially increase their lending capacity, and leverage far more private finance. We also need credit rating agencies and investors to modernise risk assessments, to account for the promise of clean energy, the cost of climate chaos, and the danger of stranded fossil fuel assets.A new energy era is within reach – an era where cheap, clean abundant energy powers a world rich in economic opportunity, where nations have the security of energy autonomy, and the gift of electricity is a gift for all. This is our moment of opportunity to supercharge the global shift. Let’s seize it.

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12 June 2025

Building a climate-resilient Viet Nam: Strengthening women’s role in agriculture and leadership

As one of the most climate-vulnerable countries in the world, Viet Nam is facing an escalating climate crisis. Rising sea levels and increasingly severe disasters threaten not only its stunning landscapes but also the lives and livelihoods of millions of its people, from urban centers to mountainous regions and coastal areas. The Mekong Delta, a vital agricultural hub, exemplifies this vulnerability, grappling with drought, rising sea levels, and saltwater intrusion. Typhoon Yagi was yet another harsh reminder of Viet Nam’s growing battle against climate-related disasters. According to the Viet Nam Multi-Sector Assessment Report, the disaster caused extensive damage in 26 provinces, resulting in 320 deaths. The agricultural sector, which sustains many rural communities, was hit particularly hard, exacerbating economic hardships.Amidst these challenges, women are disproportionately affected. On a visit to Ca Mau in November 2024, Nguyen Thuy Huynh, a 39-year-old farmer from Khanh Binh Tay commune, shared: “I have to collect water to irrigate crops by hand. These tasks are time-consuming and exhausting, especially in the dry season.” In many rural households, access to clean water is a daily struggle, with women bearing the burden of managing limited supplies. Additionally, restricted access to financial resources, technology, and land ownership makes it harder for them to sustain agricultural livelihoods.The reality in Ca Mau is mirrored in rural areas throughout Viet Nam. Women play a crucial role in agriculture, a sector highly vulnerable to climate change. According to the Viet Nam Household Living Standards Survey, 63% of rural women are engaged in farming, compared to 58% of men. Among ethnic minorities, where 81% of the population works in agriculture, women form a significant portion of the workforce. Yet, they often lack the resources to recover from climate-related shocks such as floods, droughts, and water scarcity, which threaten their livelihoods. Strengthening women’s agricultural resilience through training, credit access, and sustainable farming techniques is essential for food security and economic stability. Viet Nam has strong policies supporting women farmers, but these require better resourcing and ensuring women’s inclusion in decision-making. Key international agreements, including the Beijing Declaration, the COP29 Resolution on Gender and Climate, and the Asia-Pacific Declaration on Gender Equality, emphasize addressing women’s unique challenges and ensuring they have a meaningful voice in climate adaptation efforts.UN Women in Viet Nam and Embassy of Japan in Viet Nam are working with the government to strengthen women’s resilience to climate change. With funding from the Japan, UN Women implemented the "Livelihood Support Project for Vulnerable Women in Ninh Thuan and Ca Mau Provinces Affected by Drought and Salinity" in 2024, taking an initiative to improve access to clean water for women and their children. Furthermore, Japan is collaborating with IOM and UNICEF to implement an initiative to provide essential water facilities in the northern mountainous region, including Cao Bang Provinces, which suffered significant damage from Typhoon "Yagi." UN Women through partnerships with Sweden, and New Zealand, initiatives in Lao Cai, and Da Nang are already delivering results. These efforts empower women by amplifying women’s voices in decision-making, providing climate-smart technologies and training, improving disaster planning through sex-disaggregated data, and integrating gender-based violence prevention. Women’s leadership remains central, with women’s unions driving and implementing key initiatives. Pi Nang Thi Thien, a 38-year-old single mother of two in Phuoc Chien commune, from Raglai minority group in Ninh Thuan province is one of the farmers who has benefited from ‘Water is Life’ project. The initiative by UN Women and Japan, implemented in Ninh Thuan and Ca Mau, provides water-saving irrigation equipment to help women manage their resources more efficiency. “I no longer worry about the high risk of losing my fruit garden due to drought. With the water-spraying irrigation system and pump provided by the project, I can now control the watering of my coconuts, jackfruits, banana, corn, and sugarcane”. This tangible improvement in the livelihoods of vulnerable women farmers like Ms. Pi Nang Thi Thien is a result of the strong leadership of Chamalea Thi Liem, a dedicated woman leader in her commune. Born in 1980, appointed chairwoman of the Commune People’s Committee in Ninh Thuan in 2021. She successfully advocated for the 'Water is Life' project, prioritizing its swift implementation by providing guidance and clear directions to designated local government staff. Her leadership ensured timely facilitation and support for water irrigation for women farmers. Additionally, her proficiency in both the local indigenous language of the Raglai minority group and Vietnamese enabled her to lead effectively and communicate the impactful results of the interventions, ultimately improving the lives of women and children in her commune.Their stories highlight how climate-resilient technologies are transforming the lives of women farmers, easing their workloads and safeguarding their livelihoods against climate change.As Viet Nam pursues its goals of becoming a high-income country by 2045 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, empowering women and girls must remain a priority. True resilience requires more than just climate-smart agriculture technology- it demands that women be fully involved in shaping climate adaption strategies. The Vietnamese government has announced its National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security in 2024. Therefore, Viet Nam is at a significant milestone in promoting gender equality and women's empowerment in the field of peace and security. We are confident that the initiative by UN Women and Japan is a welcome development for Viet Nam as well. By investing in women’s agriculture livelihoods and leadership, we invest in a sustainable, climate-resilient future that aligns with Viet Nam’s long-term development ambitions.ITO Naoki is the Ambassador of Japan to Viet Nam, and Caroline Nyamayemombe is the UN Women Country Representative

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30 November 2024

Building a sustainable HIV response with the community, for the community

As international HIV funding began to fade in Viet Nam, community-based organizations (CBOs) have risen to the challenge, striving to ensure that community-driven solutions can not only survive but thrive. S Đỏ, a community organization based in Can Tho province, exemplifies this resilience, serving as a model for sustainability and innovation in Viet Nam’s evolving HIV response.A Turning PointFounded in 2012 by and for the MSM (Men who have Sex with Men) and transgender communities, S Đỏ began as a small initiative powered by international donor support to provide critical HIV testing, counseling, and outreach services to marginalized communities at higher risk of HIV infection.For years, Viet Nam’s HIV programs flourished with support from international donors like PEPFAR and the Global Fund. These resources have been funding vital services such as PrEP, self-testing kits, and most of community outreach work. But as Viet Nam transitions to upper-middle-income status, external donor funding is declining. This has left organizations like S Đỏ at a crossroads: adapt or risk losing the hard-won gains in their capacity and results against HIV.“When donor funding started to decrease, we had to make a choice: either shrink our work or find a way to sustain it ourselves,” says Đặng Quốc Phong, the non-binary leader of S Đỏ. “We’ve always believed that solutions should come from within the community. We chose to grow.”The Decision to DiversifyS Đỏ’s team began asking hard questions: How could they fund their work without relying solely on grants? What strengths could they leverage to create a sustainable future? They turned to the community itself for inspiration. Through their work, they noticed a pressing need for life skills, vocational training, and gender-sensitive counseling—and an opportunity to create a sustainable income stream. This realization led to the establishment of S Đỏ’s social enterprise arm, which offers capacity-building services like workshops on communication skills, consulting techniques, and media production. Clients range from international organizations like USAID and Save the Children International to local agencies like Can Tho Centers for Disease Control (Can Tho CDC) and Women’s Union branches, as well as community members seeking vocational support. “It was a win-win,” Phong says. “Our mission is always at the heart of what we do. We were building skills in the community and genuinely improve people’s lives while also funding our work.” Today, 30% of S Đỏ’s operational costs are covered by revenue from capacity-building services. The rest comes from a mix of short-term and long-term donor funding. S Đỏ reinvests its income into free HIV testing, mental health counseling, and outreach programs with separate specialized teams, ensuring that their services remain accessible to the marginalized population. Challenges Along the WayTransitioning to a self-sustaining model was not without its challenges. After years of operating as a grant-funded nonprofit, S Đỏ had to learn how to generate revenue while staying true to its mission.“At first, it was hard to see ourselves as more than just a nonprofit,” Phong admits. “We had to shift our mindset and embrace being a social enterprise.”There were also legal and financial complexities. Navigating tax regulations and government oversight required significant time and effort. “We spent a lot of time educating ourselves,”The Power of Collective ActionS Đỏ’s success is rooted in collaboration. As a founding member of the Mekong Delta CBO Network (MCN), S Đỏ has played a key role in strengthening connections among CBOs through technical advice, experience sharing, and capacity-building initiatives.In addition to local partnerships, S Đỏ works with international and national stakeholders like World Health Organizations and Viet Nam Administration of HIV/AIDS Control, as well as other international development partners. Acting as a trusted consultant, the organization helps design and implement programs tailored to the MSM and transgender communities, enhancing service quality and expanding outreach.“Our mission is bigger than us,” Phong reflects. “Through collaboration, we’re building a network that creates real, lasting change for the community.”Insights from the UNAIDS ConsultationS Đỏ’s transformation is part of a larger shift in Viet Nam’s HIV response. In August 2024, Phong joined other community leaders at a UNAIDS community consultation in Hanoi to discuss how CBOs can sustain their work in the face of declining donor funding.The consultation emphasized the critical role of CBOs in advancing the HIV response. Key community recommendations included fostering data transparency and collaboration between CBOs and health authorities, creating legal framework and mechanisms for state funding access, expanding community-led multi-service clinics, and ensuring clear policies to strengthen CBO roles in providing HIV and health services. Technical support to improve service quality and financial management was also highlighted.For Phong, the consultation was a moment of affirmation. “It was a reminder that we’re not alone in this work,” he says. “It showed us that our experiences and solutions are part of a larger movement.”A Vision for the FutureAs Viet Nam works to strengthen the sustainability of the national HIV response of which an important component is sustainability of the community-led response, S Đỏ is setting an example for how community organizations can lead with innovation, collaboration, and sustainability. UNAIDS Country Director, Raman Hailevich underscores the stakes: “If we fail to sustain community-led HIV responses, we risk losing the fight against HIV and failing the common goal of ending AIDS. Multilateral support is essential—the government, international organizations, and donors must continue supporting capacity enhancement and strengthen the enabling environment that fosters trust, provides resources, and empowers community organizations of people living with and at higher risk of HIV infection to grow and make greater, sustainable contributions to the HIV response. A sustainable HIV response must be built with the community, for the community, with the support of all stakeholders.”

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30 November 2024

Voices from the Transgender Community: “Respect is the foundation for accessible healthcare.”

"You make me so confused now. Are you male or female? Why do you look so different from your ID card?"These questions, asked by healthcare providers, are a stark reminder of the discrimination faced by transgender women in Viet Nam. For Tu Anh, a young transgender woman, and the community she represents, such encounters are still painfully not rare. Transgender people navigating the healthcare system often face not just stigma but deeply ingrained systemic barriers that hinder their access to healthcare services.Life as Transgender WomenTu Anh, a leader within the young HIV key populations community, is committed to creating positive changes. Born in the late 1990s in northern Viet Nam, she has grown up witnessing the struggles of transgender women, particularly those from northern provinces and ethnic minority groups. They are doubly marginalized, facing widespread societal prejudice and limited access to non-stigmatized health services.Living as their true selves—embracing an appearance that reflects their gender identity rather than their sex assigned at birth—subjects transgender people to heightened scrutiny and discrimination. This bias pervades every aspect of their lives, from securing decent employment to seeking medical care, societal recognition, and protection against gender-based violence. Challenges in securing stable jobs lead many to seek income through entertainment establishments or sex work as a means of survival, according to Tu Anh. Unfortunately, these precarious livelihoods expose them to significant risks, including gender-based violence (GBV), HIV, and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Financial hardship further compounds these challenges, pushing some toward higher-paying but unsafe practices, such as engaging in condomless sex, which significantly increases their vulnerability to HIV and other health risks."Economic struggles and societal stigma place transgender persons at risk for physical and sexual violence," Tu Anh says. "Many of us bear the scars of not being accepted, unable to express fully our true selves through our gender identity." SOGIE[1] Awareness in the Healthcare SettingsHealthcare settings, which should be safe havens for everyone, can become sources of stress and humiliation for transgender women. Medical professionals’ intrusive questions, such as those about gender identity or appearance, compound the healthcare access barriers. Additionally, the lack of gender-affirming documentation means that their identity often conflicts with what is recorded in official records, leading to refusal of services.“All we want is to be treated like anyone else,” says Tu Anh. In response, she has worked to create support networks within the transgender community, connecting people with clinics and healthcare providers who offer respectful, non-judgmental care. Additionally, the community has initiated HIV clinics specifically designed for transgender people and worked with the Viet Nam Administration of HIV/AIDS Control and development partners to provide SOGIE sensitization training where healthcare workers are trained to understand SOGIE and offer empathetic, non-judgmental care with confidentiality. “We very much welcome the direction of the Ministry of Health sent to all health facilities recently affirming that being lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, and transgender (LGBT) is about sexual orientation and gender identity, and that cannot be changed nor should be treated,” Tu Anh expressed. “The official dispatch also asked health facilities across the country to provide healthcare services for LGBT persons with respect and no discrimination.” Despite progress, much more work remains in sensitizing healthcare workers on sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression (SOGIE) on a wider scale to provide non-discriminatory care. SOGIE sensitization equips medical professionals with the knowledge and empathy needed to understand and respect the diverse needs of transgender people. By fostering inclusive practices, healthcare providers can create safe, welcoming environments that encourage transgender people to seek necessary care without fear of judgment or mistreatment, ultimately improving health outcomes for transgender people .A Call for Accessible and Inclusive Health ServicesTu Anh emphasizes, “People are more likely to seek care when they feel safe, valued, and respected." As Vietnam observes National Action Month on HIV/AIDS, culminating in World AIDS Day 2024, Tu Anh and members of the transgender community are calling for more meaningful change. "Building a healthcare system that is inclusive and respectful is essential to ensuring that everyone, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation, has the opportunity to live a healthy and dignified life," says UNAIDS Country Director for Vietnam, Raman Hailevich. "Change is possible when communities, government, and healthcare providers unite to promote and translate into practice the person-centered approach on a daily basis. To end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030, we must ensure equitable access to healthcare for everyone."For Tu Anh and countless others in the transgender community, the journey is still long. With support from UNAIDS and other development partner organizations, and under the leadership of the government, the joint efforts will continue for a future where transgender people no longer face discrimination in healthcare settings, where they can access the care they need with dignity and respect, and live healthier, more fulfilling lives.
[1] SOGIE: sexual orientation and gender identity and expression

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Press Release

28 July 2025

Strengthening Inter-agency Cooperation in the Fight against Human Trafficking in Viet Nam

The event served as a platform to spotlight emerging trafficking trends, strengthen law enforcement and international cooperation, promote the use of technology to disrupt trafficking networks and reaffirm the importance of victim-centred approaches. Participants also emphasized the critical role of youth as catalysts for change in the fight against human trafficking.The World Day against Trafficking in Persons is observed globally on the 30 July to raise awareness of a crime that affects not only the victims but entire societies. This year’s theme, “Human Trafficking is Organized Crime – End the Exploitation,” underscores the need to dismantle trafficking networks through coordinated law enforcement and justice sector responses while ensuring that survivors are fully protected.In recent years, trafficking in persons has grown increasingly complex across the Asia–Pacific region. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Southeast Asia has witnessed a sharp rise in scam compounds operated by transnational criminal syndicates engaged in sophisticated online fraud. According to IOM’s Regional Situation Report on Trafficking in Persons into Forced Criminality in Online Scamming Centres in Southeast Asia, the number of trafficking victims forced into criminal activities who received IOM’s support tripled, from 296 in 2022 to 978 in 2023. These criminal groups deceive online users and exploit individuals who are forcibly recruited to work for them. Many victims – often young and educated – are lured with promises of high-paying jobs, only to have their passports confiscated and be subjected to confinement, violence, sexual abuse and coercion into carrying out scams. These include fake investment schemes, cryptocurrency fraud, impersonation schemes and so-called pig butchering scams, in which fraudsters cultivate trust with victims over time before defrauding them of significant sums of money. Mitsue Pembroke, IOM Officer-in-Charge in Viet Nam, praised the country’s leadership in promoting safe migration and preventing human trafficking, particularly through the revision of the Law on Human Trafficking Prevention and Combat in 2024. “This is a remarkable milestone for Viet Nam and reflects its strong commitment to tackling this crime. The revised law lays a stronger foundation for addressing increasingly complex trafficking trends, which are exacerbated by socio-economic challenges,” she stated.With nearly 2.4 billion youth worldwide, this is the largest generation in history. Among the 281 million international migrants, approximately 11.3 per cent are below 24 years old. In Viet Nam, over 22 million young people aged 16 to 30 are considering moving from their hometowns in search of better work and study opportunities.Mitsue emphasized that while youth are increasingly vulnerable to traffickers exploiting online platforms, they also hold the power to drive meaningful change. “Their creativity, energy and digital fluency position them to develop innovative solutions to combat trafficking in the digital age. Investing in youth not only protects their peers but also strengthens community resilience,” she added. “As Viet Nam prepares to host the signing of the Hanoi Convention, the first-ever global treaty dedicated to addressing cybercrime, it marks a pivotal moment in international cooperation against cyber-enabled crimes, including human trafficking,” said Pauline Tamesis, United Nations Resident Coordinator. “Together, we must strengthen our commitments to protecting trafficking victims – especially vulnerable communities and children – and to dismantling organized exploitation in the digital age.” The dialogue also featured a side event – an exhibition and interactive experience space titled “Spot the Signs, Fight the Crime”– where participants and the public actively engaged in learning to recognize the signs of human trafficking through facts, figures and real-life stories. The space aimed to raise awareness of trafficking as an organized crime and equip visitors with practical skills to protect themselves and others, access support resources, and make informed migration decisions.

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Press Release

28 May 2025

UN Women, UNICEF and UNFPA reaffirm commitment to support Ho Chi Minh City in providing essential services for women and children survivors of violence.

As Viet Nam’s dynamic socio-economic hub, Ho Chi Minh City has made significant development progress but continues to face persistent challenges related to gender inequality and violence against women and children. In response to this urgent need, and with technical and financial support from UN Women and other partners, the city launched its first One-Stop Service Center at Hung Vuong Hospital in March 2023. Since then, the Center has supported 224 women and adolescents affected by violence. During the same period, the hospital recorded more than 1000 cases of child mothers and adolescents seeking family planning services—none of whom accessed the Center’s services, for various reasons. These figures reflect a stark reality in Viet Nam. A 2019 national study conducted by Ministry of Home Affairs (formerly Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs), the National Statistical Office of Viet Nam (formerly the General Statistics Office) and UNFPA revealed that two out of three women in Viet Nam have experienced physical and/or sexual violence by an intimate partner. Notably, 90 percent of survivors do not seek support from local authorities.Beside the Center at Hung Vuong Hospital, the UN agencies in Viet Nam have supported the development and piloting of various One-Stop Service models, such as Ánh Dương Houses, Peace House Shelters, and one at the National Children’s Hospital. These models provide integrated services for women and children survivors of abuse and GBV in Ho Chi Minh City, Ha Noi, Da Nang, Quang Ninh, and Thanh Hoa.The One-Stop Service models offer intake, assessment, treatment, and counseling for survivors of violence and abuse. These centers provide essential, free services in one location — enabling survivors to access medical care, psychological support, and legal counseling without navigating complex and fragmented systems.Representing the three UN agencies, Matt Jackson, UNFPA Representative in Viet Nam stated at the workshop:“Violence against women and children is not only a violation of rights — it is a hidden tax on development. It drains health systems, lowers workforce participation, limits human capital, and undermines peace and prosperity. If Viet Nam is to realize its full economic and social potential, ending violence must be a top priority. It is not a cost — it is a catalyst for sustainable, inclusive growth.”Speaking at the workshop, Nguyen Van Dung, Vice Chairperson of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee, emphasized:"Given the prevalence and complexity of gender-based violence — occurring in households, schools, workplaces, public spaces, and online — no single agency or locality can address it alone. A coordinated, multi-sectoral approach is essential to deliver effective and lasting solutions.”Building on lessons learned, the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee has announced the establishment of three additional One-Stop Service Centers at Children’s Hospital 1, the City Children’s Hospital, and the Ho Chi Minh City Orthopedic and Trauma Hospital. During the launching ceremony of the three new models, representatives from UN Women, UNICEF, and UNFPA — under the Joint Programme on Ending Violence Against Women and Children, funded by the Government of Australia — reiterated their continued support to Ho Chi Minh City in expanding and strengthening these models. Their steadfast partnership brings additional resources, international expertise, and momentum to the City’s efforts in building a safe, inclusive, and violence-free environment for all women and children.-Ends-

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Press Release

05 January 2025

United Nations Secretary-General’s Envoy on Technology to visit Viet Nam

This is the first country visit of Mr. Gill to Viet Nam since starting his role in June 2022 with the following objectives:To foster high-level discussions on digital transformation and AI governance, and Viet Nam’s initiatives in these emerging fields, including efforts to build a national innovation ecosystem; To deepen understanding and implementation of the Global Digital Compact, which provides a comprehensive framework for the global governance of digital technology and AI; andTo engage with multiple stakeholders, including youth, to better understand the needs of various segments of the Vietnamese society in inclusive digital transformation and ethical use of AI.During the 2-day visit hosted by the Viet Nam’s Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST), Under-Secretary-General Gill will have high-level meetings with leaders of the Government, the National Assembly, the Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Politics, line ministries, as well as serve as Key Note Speaker at the Multi-stakeholder dialogue on AI Governance (co-organized by MOST and the UN in Viet Nam) and the Youth-led dialogue on Digital transformation and AI Governance (organized by the UN in Viet Nam) with the participation of innovators, academics and students.The important visit of the Under-Secretary-General for Digital and Emerging Technologies and United Nations Secretary-General’s Envoy on Technology underscores Viet Nam’s growing role in the global AI conversation focusing on ethical AI deployment, governance, international collaboration, the role of the United Nations in shaping AI’s future, and the equality of opportunities in AI. ENDS*Mr. Amandeep Singh Gill was appointed United Nations Secretary-General's Envoy on Technology in June 2022 and serves as United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Digital and Emerging Technologies. In this role, he spearheads the Secretary-General's strategic initiatives in technology, facilitates coordination across the UN system and engages with a diverse array of stakeholders and partners globally. He is also a member of the Secretary-General's High Level Advisory Body on AI and of his Scientific Advisory Board. His extensive experience in technology and diplomacy includes serving as Executive Director and co-lead of the UN Secretary-General's High-Level Panel on Digital Cooperation (2018-2019) and as India's Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the Conference on Disarmament in Geneva (2016-2018). In recognition of his influential work in the field of artificial intelligence, TIME magazine named Mr. Gill one of the 100 most influential people in AI in 2024.

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Press Release

15 November 2024

Launch of the National Action Month on Gender Equality and Gender-Based Violence Prevention & Response to 2024

On November 15, 2024, the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs (MOLISA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Security and the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women), launched the 2024 National Action Month on Gender Equality and Gender-Based Violence Prevention and Response, under the theme: "Ensuring Social Welfare, Empowering and Enabling Women and Girls to Achieve Gender Equality and Eliminate Violence Against Women and Girls."The event was attended by Mr. Đào Ngọc Dung, Member of the Party Central Committee, Minister of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs, and Chairperson of the National Committee for the Advancement of Women in Viet Nam; Lieutenant General Lê Văn Tuyến, Deputy Minister Public Security, Madame Pauline Tamesis, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Viet Nam; leaders of central ministries and agencies; representatives from provincial Departments of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs; ambassadors; representatives of international organizations, the private sector; and over 800 delegates from the People's Public Security Forces.In recent years, the Party, State, and Government of Viet Nam have made significant efforts to ensure social welfare, promote gender equality, and prevent and respond to gender-based violence, particularly violence against women and children. Resolution No. 42-NQ/TW, dated November 24, 2023, from the 8th Plenary Session of the 13th Party Central Committee, emphasized that social policy must prioritize care for and empowerment of the people, centering the people as the core, driver, and resource for sustainable development.In his opening remarks, Minister Đào Ngọc Dung highlighted:
"Social welfare, measures to promote equality, and attention to the legitimate needs and interests of women and children must remain priorities. Under this year’s theme, the National Action Month emphasizes the importance of maintaining a stable, equitable, democratic society while ensuring social welfare, security, and safety for the people, especially for women and girls."This year's launch event spotlighted the involvement of the People's Public Security Forces, marking their commitment to gender equality and to gender-based violence prevention and response.Lieutenant General Lê Văn Tuyến underscored:
"The Ministry of Public Security has always directed the police forces at all levels to coordinate with relevant organizations in early detection, timely intervention, and proper handling of gender-based violence cases, illegal marriage brokerage, to protect victims and survivors. Alongside efforts to combat crimes against child abuse and human trafficking, these missions will continue to be a priority across the People's Public Security Forces."With concerted efforts from ministries, agencies, and local governments, gender equality in Viet Nam has achieved remarkable progress:The representation of women in Party committees across terms has increased.Women occupy key leadership roles in 59% of ministries and equivalent agencies.Women hold key leadership positions in 74.6% of provincial governments.Female representation in the 15th National Assembly stands at 30.26%, surpassing global and regional averages.The gender gap across education levels has narrowed.Support services for survivors of gender-based violence have expanded and improved in quality.Women’s roles in the economy have strengthened, with numerous female entrepreneurs and executives recognized globally.Additionally, Vietnamese female officers serving in UN peacekeeping missions have demonstrated the vital potential of women in addressing diverse challenges in the Women, Peace and Security agenda.According to the Global Gender Gap Report 2024 by the World Economic Forum, Viet Nam’s gender equality ranking rose to 72nd out of 146 countries, an 11-place improvement since 2022. On April 9, 2024, the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) elected Viet Nam to the Executive Board of UN Women for the 2025–2027 term, affirming Viet Nam’s growing stature on the international stage.Representing the UN in Viet Nam, Madame Pauline Tamesis, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Viet Nam stated: "The United Nations supports enhancing the capacity of the Vietnamese police in handling cases with sensitivity while ensuring that investigation processes are child-friendly, victim-friendly, gender-sensitive as well as gender responsive. Together, we have ensured that the police are fully equipped and trained to instill confidence and safety in women and children in reporting cases; and in seeking help from the authorities.”Despite significant progress, challenges persist. Gender stereotypes remain a major barrier, gender imbalances at birth are still high, and child marriage and adolescent pregnancy remain prevalent in ethnic minority areas. Violence against women and children continues, with women disproportionately bearing the burden of household and caregiving responsibilities. Emerging issues such as population aging, climate change and natural disasters have significantly impacted the socio-economic development process and people's lives, with women and children are among the most affected groups. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive response from the entire political system and society at large. The formulation of policies and laws must go hand in hand with the responsibility and efforts of functional agencies in implementation to ensure that the laws are effectively applied in practice. Additionally, emphasis must be placed on the proactive and active roles of media agencies in changing traditional perceptions, gender stereotypes, and gender-based violence. More importantly, women and children themselves should also be proactive in sharing their experiences, seeking help to address issues of violence and abuse, and equipping themselves with the knowledge and skills to prevent these issues.Minister Đào Ngọc Dung called on all ministries, agencies, organizations, local governments, international partners, media, and every person to commit to practical and effective actions promoting gender equality for the prosperity and happiness of all individuals, families, and society.The National Action Month launch marked the start of a national communication campaign on gender equality and gender-based violence prevention & response. Following the ceremony, side events such as parades and martial arts demonstrations by the People’s Public Security Forces were held. Thousands of activities supporting the National Action Month are planned nationwide.The National Action Month for Gender Equality and Gender-Based Violence Prevention and Response is held annually from November 15 to December 15. All provinces, as well as many ministries and central agencies, have developed plans and implemented activities in response to this National Action Month. In 2023 alone, ministries, sectors, and localities carried out over 6,000 communication activities with more than 950,000 participants (of whom approximately 30% were men); nearly 480,000 communication materials were distributed; nearly 3,800 conferences, seminars, forums, and specialized discussions were organized; 57,683 news pieces and articles were produced and disseminated through mass media; and over 1.4 million leaflets and communication products were developed. It is estimated that the messages of the National Action Month have reached and engaged over 10 million people.For more information, please contact:
Gender Equality Department, Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs
Address: 12 Ngo Quyen Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Phone: +84 24 3825 3875
Email: vubdg@molisa.gov.vn

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Press Release

06 November 2024

UN Women and Japan Join Forces to Support Women Facing Drought and Saltwater Intrusion in Ca Mau and Ninh Thuan

The “Water is Life” project, funded by the Government of Japan and led by UN Women in collaboration with the Women’s Unions of Ca Mau and Ninh Thuan, is a year-long project running from 2024 to 2025. By providing water storage tanks, filtration systems, efficient water-saving equipment, and targeted communication programs, this project aims to enhance women’s sustainable access to clean water, improve their livelihoods, and contribute to the prevention of gender-based violence in these provinces.“Women carry the primary responsibility for water collection and caregiving in their households, making them the first and hardest hit by water scarcity,” said Ms. Caroline Nyamayemombe, UN Women Representative in Viet Nam. “The ‘Water is Life’ project not only eases these burdens by securing vital water supplies but also empowers women in the frontline of building community resilience against climate impacts.” Due to water scarcity, women often spend an additional two to three hours each day collecting water, which affects their health, limits work opportunities, and increases their exposure to gender-based violence when traveling far from home. Additionally, a lack of clean water contributes to the spread of infectious diseases, especially impacting children, pregnant women and the elderly, and thereby increasing caregiving responsibilities.As part of this project, UN Women and the Government of Japan are providing water tanks to households and filtration systems to schools and health centers to improve sanitation for children and local residents. Furthermore, in alignment with the provinces’ development plans for water provision, this project is establishing linkages with private sector investors in water-saving technologies, with a commitment to empowering women, as the provinces continues to pursue long term solutions of this climate-induced issue. With the Government of Japan’s support, it is estimated that 7,200 people, especially vulnerable women, will benefit from these efforts.“We hope that this project will improve access to clean water for women and children living in Ca Mau, and that this will lead to the revitalization of agriculture and other industries, as well as securing livelihoods for women in vulnerable positions”, said Mr. Ito Naoki, the Ambassador of Japan to Viet Nam. NFrom November 5 through the end of December 2024, more than 420 women in Khanh Binh Tay Commune, Tran Van Thoi District, Ca Mau, will receive water storage tanks to help reduce time spent on water collection, lighten caregiving burdens, and protect family health. Additionally, 200 women in need of improved agricultural irrigation will receive financial support for water-saving irrigation equipment, following the declaration of a Level 2 drought emergency in Ca Mau. Facing severe drought, significant saltwater intrusion, and a heightened risk of wildfires, Ca Mau and Ninh Thuan are among Viet Nam’s most climate-vulnerable regions. Prolonged droughts are damaging agriculture and impacting the health and livelihoods of residents, particularly women and children responsible for household water supplies. In Ca Mau, saltwater intrusion in 2020 affected over 29,644 hectares of farmland, drastically reducing rice and vegetable yields and costing an estimated VND 107 billion. Rising water scarcity has forced over 20,000 households to buy water at high prices, affecting their ability to afford other essentials.In Ninh Thuan—the driest province in Viet Nam—prolonged droughts led to over 7,873 hectares of farmland being abandoned between 2019-2020. Here, the shortage of fresh water has placed 72,000 people at risk of food insecurity, while more than 12,000 households, encompassing nearly 50,000 people, lack access to drinking water. With surface and groundwater sources drying up, around 110,000 livestock have suffered malnutrition or died from lack of water and food.

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