How well are women represented in political office in Viet Nam? Take a geographical view to see where Vietnam’s targets on women’s representation have been met and where there are low and high rates of women’s representation.

This study, based largely on interviews with current and former female Members of Parliament and representatives of the Viet Nam Women’s Union, the Fatherland Front, government officials and social organizations, indicates that there are a number of ways that the process could be improved

The purpose of this report is to highlight trends in women’s representation in Viet Nam’s government, provide an overview of the legal framework related to women’s leadership and to discuss the challenges and barriers faced by women in the public sector.

The purpose of this booklet is to support the Vietnamese partners of the UNDP and Ministry of Foreign Affair’s project Women’s Leadership by providing information and guidance on an effective approach to build the capacity of potential women leaders.

Gender-responsive leadership training helps to build a cadre of capable female and male leaders, who understand the value and need for shared leadership. It also supports more women to take on leadership roles. This, in turn, will create a more gender-responsive government and public sector

Despite the targets to increase the number of women in the legislature, little is known about how the women whom have won seats in the VNA perform their roles. Few studies have examined the positions women are selected to in the VNA or the way they perform their roles once selected.

All activities to support more robust participation of women in political leadership must be accompanied by advocacy among men and women, as well as policy and regulatory changes that show commitment to shared leadership and value for more diverse contributions to public policy.

Training programmes for women in the public sector should therefore also focus on women aspirants. This will help more women obtain official training certificates and therefore more opportunities to be promoted.

Viet Nam has always placed a strong emphasis on gender equality. This has resulted in important achievements such as low maternal mortality and high access to education. Indeed, Vietnamese women have one of the highest labour force participation rates in the world.

Bring men on board – this is not a woman’s issue – women and men need to work together to increase women’s representation. Ensure the women candidates are highly qualified and capable to voice women’s concerns.