Dialogue “Voices of the Older Women”

Attending the Dialogue were the representatives of many Agencies and Ministries, retired women leaders and more than 100 older persons from the different localities where the net work of “Higher Tree Larger Shadow” including VWU, VAE and RECAS with the support of the Help Age International (HAI) have created effective models to support older people in difficulties.

This is the first time in Vietnam a dialogue for older women's voices regarding their equal rights and interests were held. Participants had the opportunity to exchange and share information as well as operational experience in the field related to the elderly. The event also contributed to raising awareness of social issues and policies that impact the elderly, particularly o­n equal rights for older women.

The discussion also noted valuable comments and recommendation made by many retired well-known women leaders present. They addressed the important of appropriate policies, programs and measures to care for and ensure the rights and benefits of the elderly, as well as to promote their role in the mainstream development. Especially recommendations for special attention and support were made to older women and children suffered and effected by Agent orange/dioxin used by the US army during the war in Vietnam.

First Vice-President Nguyen Thi Kim Thuy asserted that the discussion was an opportunity to present the aspirations and expectations of older women to not o­nly the Government, but mass organizations and the general public as well in addressing the interests, rights and benefits for older women, especially disadvantaged older women. The dialogue up hold the role played by older women and strengthened the cooperation among members of the “Higher Tree Larger Shadow” net work for nice ageing to everyone to recognize and promote the role of older women, both those who are disadvantaged and in general.

Also attending the dialogue was Mr. Nguyen Tan Trinh, President of the Vietnam Association for the Elderly. He presented the Draft Law o­n the Elderly that is expected to be passed at the 6th session of National Assembly XII in October 2009, as well as efforts to ensure the legitimate interests and contributions of the elderly to society.