Violations of the Rights of Women in the Socialist Republic of Vietnam
On paper, the Vietnamese government has undertaken many legal commitments to promote gender equality and combat discrimination. In practice, however, despite the previous concerns expressed by the CEDAW Committee in this regard, the rights ensured de jure in Vietnam’s legislation are not enjoyed de facto by women in Vietnam, especially in the social, economic and political areas.
Today, widespread discrimination against women persists in Vietnam. Domestic violence, trafficking of women and girls, prostitution, the growing problem of HIV/AIDS, violations of reproductive rights are serious problems, yet they frequently go unacknowledged or unpunished by the authorities. This discourages women from denouncing abuses, and also sends the message that such forms of discrimination are socially acceptable in Vietnam.