Vietnam fights violence against women and girls

Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs Dao Hong Lan said gender inequality and gender-based violence is an issue across regions and social classes. 

She noted the action month calls for concerted efforts from public agencies, organisations and the community, particularly male citizens, to implement the national goals on gender equality and protection of girls and women from violence.

Responding to the launch, Vice Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh People’s Committee Le Thanh Liem stated the southern city will enhance its gender policies, particularly on the improvement of living standards for female residents.

Elisa Fernandez, head of office at the UN Women Vietnam, said violence against women and girls is a prolonged human rights problem despite economic and social progress.

She pointed to a survey that showed 87 percent women encountering sexual abuse in public spaces do not speak out or seek help due to a lack of support services.

The UN representative also urged the removal of gender stereotypes.

Earlier, a photo exhibition on women took place at the local Nguyen Hue pedestrian street in District 1, featuring a flashmob, a household chore contest for men, and a painting competition on a safe city for women and girls.