Vietnamese women have played central roles in national construction and defence, cultural preservation, family life and economic development. As the country has grown, they have gained wider opportunities to apply their skills and ambitions.
From wartime service to economic development
During the wars for independence and reunification, women fought, supported combat units, handled logistics, nursed the wounded, sheltered revolutionary cadres, moved food and weapons, and kept farms and factories running. Many died, were imprisoned or tortured.
In peacetime, women have contributed through labour, production, education, research, state management and civic work. They drive growth in agriculture, industry, trade and services, help adopt science and technology, and improve workforce quality.
Women are increasingly active in employment, production, trade and entrepreneurship. They have founded companies, created jobs, opened markets, encouraged innovation, built cooperatives and marketed local products.
Their political presence is growing. They serve in elected bodies, Party and State agencies and socio-political organisations. Women accounted for 30.26% of deputies in the 15th National Assembly for 2021–2026.
Party and State support for women
The 2013 Constitution declares male and female citizens equal. The 2006 Law on Gender Equality provides the legal framework for equal opportunities. The 2021–2030 national strategy targets a narrower gender gap, while the 2022 law on domestic violence prevention provides a basis for protection and assistance.
The Vietnam Women's Union supports knowledge and skills development, livelihoods, happy families and participation in public work.
Next phase: digital skills and international integration
The Union's 14th National Congress, held on June 17–18, 2026 for the 2026–2031 term, set goals for innovation, knowledge, international integration, digital skills, entrepreneurship, gender equality and protection of women and children.
Meeting the targets will turn policies and laws on women and gender equality into concrete action and support women's contributions to Vietnam's socio-economic development and international integration.
Sources: VietnamPlus / Vietnam News Agency
