Vietnam Women’s Union and ILO strengthen cooperation on gender equality
ILO delegation visits and works with the Vietnam Women’s Union On behalf of the VWU, Ms. Tran Lan Phuong thanked the ILO for its support in policy advocacy and social protection, noting that the partnership has enhanced VWU’s technical capacity.
She highlighted the VWU’s extensive network, its role in policy consultation, economic empowerment, and support for women workers, especially in industrial zones. Despite progress, she noted persistent gender gaps, limited access to social protection for informal and migrant workers, and inadequate recognition of workplace violence and harassment. She also pointed to capacity and resource constraints at local levels.
Ms. Phuong proposed three priority areas for cooperation with the ILO: (1) Strengthening policy advocacy and protection of women workers; (2) Expanding social protection and sustainable economic development; (3) Enhancing communications and digital transformation.
Delegates at the meeting
ILO Acting Director Felix Weidenkaff acknowledged the VWU’s work and noted that 2025 is a key year for advancing major improvements with ILO support. He emphasized the significant role of women in Vietnam’s labor market and the need to expand opportunities and protections related to income, wages, and workplace safety. The visit allowed ILO to better understand current challenges and plan joint programs.
At the meeting, ILO experts also shared regional lessons on fair recruitment, decent work, and measures to eliminate workplace violence.
