Secretary General of the National Assembly Bui Van Cuong at the plenary session of the Association of Secretaries General of Parliaments (ASGP) in Manama, Bahrain, March 13, 2023 (Photo: VOV)

Cuong said promoting gender equality and empowering women is stipulated in Vietnam’s Constitution and laws. The Vietnamese NA has passed the Law on Gender Equality and the Law on Election of Deputies to the NA and People's Councils to protect and promote the empowerment of women and encourage women's participation in political and socio-economic activities.

Bills submitted to the legislature for consideration and approval must all have gender impact assessments. The Vietnamese NA Standing Committee has raised public awareness of women’s role in the NA, he said.

Cuong suggested that the Inter-Parliamentary Union adopt resolutions, reports, and statements regarding gender equality in parliaments and called for cooperation between parliaments, UN organizations, and international forums to protect women's rights. Cuong also suggested enhancing skills training for female parliamentarians.