The report explores the gender differences in key sectors of development and attempts to define broad policy directions. The research findings show that important gender equality achievements have been made and in some areas, the situation of women and girls is actually better than for men and boys. However, there remain many areas where women and girls are still at a disadvantage compared to men or boys. Continued targeted efforts are required to sustain as well as further improve the situation of women and girls in Viet Nam.

Collection of sex-disaggregated data and a subsequent gender analysis of the data will continue to be a prerequisite for sound gender-sensitive policy-making. These efforts are so essential for providing factual indication of real gaps in terms of where women and men have gained or lost in the process of development.

The report will contribute to the on-going debates and discussions on integration of gender considerations in Viet Nam’s development policies and programmes.