The month will last until December 15 nationwide.

Speaking at the launch, Deputy Minister of Labour- Invalids and Social Affairs Nguyen Thi Ha said Vietnam ranks 68th out of 166 countries in the gender development index. It is also one of 10 countries to fulfil the goal of promoting gender equality and empowering women and girls as part of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

The Deputy Minister emphasized that "Gender equality is the key to eradicating gender-based violence", this message is also a direction for communication on the prevention of violence against women and children for 4 years. Since 2016, the country has had more than 62,000 activities responding to Action Month implemented at central and local level with more than 3.6 million people directly participating. Many ministries, branches and localities have coordinated with agencies and organizations to promulgate plans and implement many activities to communicate, disseminate and educate the law on gender equality with the diverse and practical forms and subjects of communication.

The implementation of the Annual Action Month has contributed to raising awareness and changing behaviors of officials and people towards gender equality. Many cases of gender-based violence, especially violence against women and children, are reported by the media and the community. Many women who have been victims of violence bravely denounce acts of violence. Many perpetrators of violence were strictly judged by the competent authorities, showing deterrence by law. Service providers to support people suffering from gender-based violence have been established and have gradually developed…

However, gender-based violence remains a big challenge in Vietnam. To Solve this problem requires the involvement of both political system and community. The promulgation of policies and laws must go hand in hand with the responsibilities and efforts of the authorities in implementing the law. In addition, attention must be paid to the active role of the media in changing traditional beliefs, gender stereotypes and gender-based violence. More importantly, women and children themselves must also be more proactive in sharing and seeking help to deal with violence and abuse, and should be equipped with knowledge and skills on prevention of violence and abuse.

Deputy Minister of Defence Sen. Lieut. Gen. Le Chiem called on units to end violence and abuse against women and girls, continue to promptly prevent and uncover such cases, and honour collectives and individuals for their outstanding achievements in the field.

On the occasion, the Ministry of Labour - Invalids and Social Affairs and the Ministry of Defence honoured the efforts of 20 outstanding families in this field.