Turnaround in Van Canh: Successful measures against child marriage!

Turnaround in Van Canh: Successful measures against child marriage!

Van Canh District in Vietnam has made significant progress in combating child marriage and promoting gender equality in recent years. Ms Pham Thi Thuy, president of the district women's union, explains that previous marriage practices in the region were difficult to change. However, the commitment of diverse projects, particularly Project 8, has increased awareness.

Project 8 includes a network of 35 community media teams and various clubs dedicated to raising awareness about the negative impact of child marriage and domestic violence. This also includes the “Listen to your children” dialogue program and the Leaders of Change clubs in secondary schools. The latter has 90 members who actively provide information about child marriage.

Successes and challenges

In Van Canh, 14 cases of child marriage were recorded in 2021, while the number increased to 22 cases in 2023. Fortunately, this number fell to 10 in the first six months of 2024. These positive changes are the result of intensive educational work, cultural exchange programs and cooperation with village elders who help to overcome backward customs.

The Women's Union focuses particularly on the needs of women from ethnic minorities, who often face early and incestuous marriages. Despite the progress made, there are still challenges as many families cling to old customs.

Economic participation and equality

Economic participation is also an important prerequisite for gender equality. According to current data from destatis.de, an increasing proportion of the population between the ages of 15 and 65 is employed, with the role of working mothers also being important. The gender pay gap also shows that women continue to earn less than men, which affects their economic independence.

In addition, the Gender Pension Gap examines how different pension income is for men and women. These are essential aspects that must also contribute to gender equality.

In summary, Van Canh is well on its way to promoting equality and sustainable development. The ongoing changes in the community and increased education on gender issues are crucial steps to ensure that children grow up at the right age and women are respected in society.

Through the use of education and social programs, Project 8 has helped raise awareness of gender equality and improve the quality of life in Van Canh, while not ignoring the challenges that persist.

Vietnam.vn reports about the progress in Van Canh, during destatis.de provides important indicators of gender equality that can be used for a comprehensive analysis.