Viet Nam has a relatively well-developed social security system, that covers several branches. However, the system is still significantly fragmented, with schemes for different groups of beneficiaries presenting low levels of alignment and coordination. Despite considerable efforts, the country still faces multiple coverage challenges, with millions of vulnerable families and children being left out. The impact of these gaps has been further highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Against this backdrop, this project seeks to contribute to the development of a more effective, efficient and gender-sensitive social security system in Viet Nam. It will promote, through technical support, capacity building and knowledge dissemination, the introduction of a multi-tiered child benefit (MTCB) in the social security system. The project activities will also contribute to the ongoing revision of the Viet Nam’s Social Insurance Law (2014), which will magnify the impact and sustainability of the project’s activities.  

The multi-tiered child benefit aims to offer contributory and non-contributory benefits to families upon the birth of a child. This policy instrument has gained significant political momentum in Viet Nam in 2021 and is now considered by the government as a key component of the ongoing revision of the Social Insurance Law (2014). The project will support the study and analysis of the most adequate design and implementation plan for its introduction. 

  Key results achieved in 2022 

• Draft framework for the measurement of expenditure in social protection programmes and social policies completed 
• Joint MOLISA-ILO report on social expenditure in Viet Nam, including the projection of expenditure for social protection and social policies in Vietnam to 2030 and 2045 

• Developed the draft training package on gender perspectives in social protection in Viet Nam. This training package focus on strengthening general knowledge of ILS on social protection and gender issues. The package also presents suggestions regarding the role Women’s Union staff at all levels can play in advocating for gender sensitive and gender responsive social protection. 

  Partners 

The project will be implemented by the ILO in direct collaboration with the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs, through its Social Security and Social Assistance Departments, and the Viet Nam Women’s Union. Other stakeholders, including the Ministry of Finance, Viet Nam Social Security, the Viet Nam General Confederation of Labour and the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry, will engage in specific activities.