HA TINH — A workshop held in the central province of Ha Tinh on November 3 highlighted the urgent need for establishing an intersectoral coordination mechanism for the prevention and response to gender-based violence. The workshop emphasized that this mechanism is crucial for effective intervention and support for victims.
According to Vietnam News Agency, Invalids and Social Affairs Nguyen Thi Ha, Vietnam has recognized gender equality and the prevention and response to gender-based violence as significant concerns. The nation has witnessed progress through institutional and policy measures, increased awareness, capacity building, and pilot support service models for victims. Despite these efforts, challenges persist, with widespread gender-based violence and a majority of female victims not utilizing official support services or approaching local authorities.
Ha elaborated that the establishments offering support services face obstacles such as inadequate infrastructure, insufficient equipment, and a lack of skilled manpower. She further stressed that the inconsistent cooperation among pertinent agencies exacerbates these issues, thus impacting the quality of support and deterring victims from seeking help.
The deputy minister called for the expansion and enhancement of the support service network and urged for increased collaboration among all relevant parties across administrative levels.
Matt Jackson, the United Nations Population Fund Representative in Vietnam, pointed out the importance of creating a comprehensive intersectoral coordination mechanism and the necessity to invest in its expansion for the prompt provision of support services. Jackson committed that the UNFPA would continue to support the Vietnamese government in developing a coordination mechanism at both national and local levels that aligns with international standards and is inclusive of all individuals.
He emphasized that such a mechanism would ensure uniformity in prevention and response strategies to gender-based violence and facilitate victims’ access to quality support services without being impeded by their location or situation.
During the workshop, ministry representatives, local authorities, and service providers offered practical recommendations. The insights, experiences, and viewpoints shared at the event will contribute to the development of a national-level intersectoral coordination mechanism for gender-based violence response.