Research report: Gender diagnostics in support of transforming employment frameworks in Viet Nam

Viet Nam has made remarkable progress in promoting gender equality in the workforce, but persistent challenges continue to hinder women’s full participation in the labour market. The International Labour Organization’s (ILO) latest report, Gender diagnostics in support of transforming employment frameworks in Viet Nam, highlights the urgent need for gender-responsive policies that address wage gaps, employment segregation, and barriers to career advancement.

Key Findings from the Report

• On average, women earn less than men, with even greater disparities in rural areas and lower-income sectors.
• Nearly half of Viet Nam’s workforce comprises women, yet they are overrepresented in lower-paying jobs such as textiles, garments, and agriculture.
• Social norms and care responsibilities disproportionately impact women’s ability to access leadership positions and high-growth industries.

Opportunities for Reform

Viet Nam is at a crucial juncture, with ongoing revisions to the Employment Law offering a historic opportunity to strengthen workplace protections and dismantle systemic inequalities. The ILO report emphasizes the importance of:

• Gender-Responsive Policy Development: Integrating gender-focused diagnostics into labour policies to ensure fair wages and equal opportunities.
• Expanding Social Protections: Enhancing access to maternity benefits, childcare services, and retirement security for women.
• Investing in Skills and Education: Encouraging more women to enter STEM fields and high-paying sectors through targeted training and incentives.
• Promoting Inclusive Work Environments: Strengthening anti-discrimination laws and increasing women's representation in leadership roles.

Building a More Equitable Future

The findings underscore that achieving Viet Nam’s ambitious economic and development goals requires fully unlocking women’s potential in the workforce. By adopting bold and comprehensive measures, policymakers, businesses, and civil society can work together to create a labour market that is fair, inclusive, and dynamic.