Gender equality at firms in Tay Ninh province examined

The survey aimed to improve workers’ awareness of gender equality. It was also part of activities to prepare for the amendment of the 2012 Labour Code so that legal regulations could better ensure equal pay, equal job opportunities, equal sharing of family responsibilities, and prevention of sexual harassment at the workplace.

Wong Ting Chun, Chairman of the First Team Vietnam Garment Co. Ltd in Thanh Thanh Cong Industrial Park in Trang Bang district, reported that his business is employing about 8,000 workers, over 80% of whom are women with an average income of VND7 – VND9 million (US$300 – US$390) per month. The female workers’ average monthly income is about VND1 million higher than their male colleagues’ since they are in charge of the steps that need more skills.

He said the draft revisions on priorities for female workers, especially those with small children, to the Labour Code are reasonable. Although these regulations haven’t been enforced, his company has applied appropriate support policies for pregnant women and those with small children.

A 19-year-old worker at the company said she has received good treatment since she began working in the company in 2016. She added workers should be allowed to decide on their overtime hours, depending on their family and health condition, because overtime pay is necessary for them to better support their lives.

During the fact-finding tour on December 29, Vice President of the general confederation Ngo Duy Hieu said ensuring workplace gender equality is one of the important solutions to protect labourers’ rights and legitimate interests.

He noted female workers need to know regulations on the retirement age, prevention of workplace sexual harassment, equality of job opportunities, and equal pay for equal work between men and women, so that they can protect their rights and interests.