Building stronger labour journalism to inform Viet Nam's future of work

HANOI, Viet Nam (ILO News) – Accurate and accessible reporting can help people better understand how changes in labour markets and policies affect their jobs, incomes and social protection. As Viet Nam undergoes rapid labour market transformation, the International Labour Organization (ILO) is working with media professionals to strengthen reporting on these issues and the future of work.

Nearly 50 journalists and editors from national and local media organizations took part in a joint training programme organized by ILO and the Institute for Policy Studies and Media Development (IPS). The training is the first step in a broader learning programme that will provide continuing technical updates and thematic webinars, while building a network of more than 100 journalists from across the country.

The programme focused on key labour issues, including wage policies, social protection and international labour standards. Through practical discussions and case studies, participants strengthened their ability to interpret policy developments, analyse labour market trends and explain their implications for workers, employers and businesses.

The training also examined some of the major forces reshaping Viet Nam’s world of work, including population ageing, digital transformation, artificial intelligence and the growth of platform work. Participants discussed how to translate complex technical and policy issues into clear, accurate and relevant stories for different audiences.

© ILO

© ILO

At the event, Ms Hoang Thi Bich Hanh, Standing Member of the Viet Nam's Center for Press Digital Transformation Support, highlighted the important role of the media in providing accurate, objective and evidence-based information on labour, employment, wages and social protection. She also emphasized the media’s contribution to improving public understanding, fostering policy dialogue and strengthening the effectiveness of policy communication as Viet Nam’s labour market changes rapidly under the influence of digital transformation and population ageing.

The initiative forms part of the ILO’s broader work to strengthen informed public dialogue on decent work in Viet Nam. By building a stronger community of journalists with the knowledge and tools to cover labour market developments, the programme can help bring complex reforms closer to people’s everyday experiences and support more informed discussion on the policies shaping Viet Nam’s future of work.

© ILO

© ILO