Social protection

A strengthened social protection system will boost climate resilience in Viet Nam

Viet Nam has made considerable progress in building and expanding its social protection system, a critical asset as the nation faces mounting challenges from climate change. The recent launch of the "World Social Protection Report 2024-2026" in Hanoi underscores the vital role that robust, inclusive social protection policies play in helping countries like Viet Nam manage environmental and economic changes, support the most vulnerable, and move toward a sustainable, resilient future.

31 October 2024

Content also available in: tiếng Việt

HANOI, Viet Nam (ILO News) – On 30 October 2024, the National Economics University (NEU), in partnership with the International Labour Organization (ILO), hosted the launch of the ILO's "World Social Protection Report 2024-2026: Universal social protection for climate action and a just transition". The report, which was globally released on 12 September 2024, and its accompanying Asia and the Pacific Regional Companion Report, shed light on the state of social protection and its importance in addressing key regional issues, including the severe impacts of climate change.

Over 100 participants joined in the launch and discussion at the National Economics University (NEU) in Hanoi

With South East Asia home to 16 of the 50 most climate-vulnerable countries, including Viet Nam, the report highlights the urgent need for comprehensive social protection systems that can defend vulnerable populations from climate-induced risks and promote income security and just transitions. Speakers at the event discussed how well-designed social protection systems help mitigate the adverse impacts of climate change, provide income support to those negatively affected by climate policies, and facilitate the transition to a greener economy.

“Stronger social protection policies are indispensable to ensure that the transitions driven by megatrends such as climate change, as well as Viet Nam’s rapid economic development, are distributed across all its population in a just equitable manner.” shared Ingrid Christensen, Director, ILO Country Office for Viet Nam.

In the context of Viet Nam, social protection has been a priority for many decades and the dedication to the development of the Vietnamese social protection system has been most recently highlighted by the promulgation of Party Resolution 42 on Social Policies in 2023, and the amended Social Insurance Law in July of this year.

While Viet Nam has achieved remarkable economic growth and poverty reduction, significant disparities remain in access to social protection—particularly among informal workers, rural populations, and other vulnerable groups. Professor Dr. Pham Hong Chuong, NEU President, emphasized that bridging these gaps will be critical to ensuring that no one is left behind as the country navigates the dual challenges of economic growth and climate change.

Nguyen Hai Dat, ILO Viet Nam's Social Protection National Programme Coordinator stressed that Viet Nam’s progress in social protection is aligned with trends in the region. According to the report, the Asia-Pacific region passed a milestone in 2023 when for the first time over half of its population (53.6 per cent) was covered by at least one social protection benefit.

Nevertheless, speakers at the event agreed that further strengthening of the social protection system will continue to be crucial for Viet Nam to achieve inclusive, sustainable development.

Sean Farrell, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Ireland to Viet Nam, highlighted that as climate change disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, robust social protection systems can serve as a vital safety net. He continued onto say that the Embassy of Ireland shares the ILO's vision of expanding social protection coverage to ensure that no one is left behind.

“Well -designed social protection systems can act as a buffer, helping to cushion the impacts of climate change”, added André Gama, ILO Social Protection Programme Manager in Viet Nam. “Social protection safeguards people’s incomes, health and employment”.

Looking ahead, addressing coverage gaps and ensuring financial sustainability will require a combination of policy reforms, increased public investment, and strong social dialogue. Professor Giang Thanh Long, a senior lecturer at NEU, pointed out that, in addition to climate change, Viet Nam’s rapidly aging population also poses a significant challenge to social security. Strengthening social services for the elderly, improving healthcare access, and adapting to shifting demographics will demand innovative, resource-efficient approaches.

As the impacts of climate change become more pronounced, Viet Nam’s social protection system has an opportunity to further develop to offer not only a safety net but also a pathway to a sustainable, resilient future. Effective social protection policies will empower communities, promote green jobs, and ensure that climate adaptation measures are inclusive, helping Viet Nam continue its journey toward sustainable development and social protection for all.