Today, as part of ongoing response efforts in the aftermath of Typhoon Yagi, UNFPA, the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency, handed over 400 Dignity Kits for distribution in Son Dong District, Bac Giang Province through the Viet Nam Farmers’ Union (VFU) network. This represents a total of 3,000 Dignity Kits supported by UNFPA in response to Typhoon Yagi and subsequent flooding donated to survivors of gender-based violence (GBV) and women at risk of violence in Lao Cai, Thai Nguyen, Quang Ninh, Thai Binh, Bac Ninh and Bac Giang Provinces which were severely affected. The event underscores a shared commitment to the journey to end violence against women and children, particularly in times of crisis and to ensure that disaster response leaves no one behind.

In Viet Nam, findings from the 2019 National Study on Violence Against Women revealed that nearly 2 in 3 women (62.9%) have faced at least one form of violence by their husbands, yet 90% of those experiencing violence did not seek help. 

Disasters and crises exacerbate these risks. Women face increased caregiving burdens, economic losses and heightened exposure to violence in overcrowded shelters with limited resources. The interruption of essential services, including GBV hotlines, further restricts access to critical support and healthcare. 

UNFPA’s Dignity Kit is a signature product of a comprehensive package of humanitarian assistance to safeguard the sexual and reproductive health and rights of women and girls and to mitigate the risk of gender-based violence. It comprises basic items that women and girls need to protect themselves and maintain hygiene, respect, and dignity in a crisis. It also includes essential information not only about sexual and reproductive health and communication materials for preventing or reporting gender-based violence. By partnering with the Vietnam Farmers’ Union, UNFPA ensures that these vital resources reach the most affected and vulnerable women, including GBV survivors and those at risk.

Speaking at the handover ceremony, Mr. Matt Jackson, UNFPA Representative in Viet Nam, emphasised:

“UNFPA works closely with the Government of Viet Nam, the Viet Nam Farmers’ Union and other partners to end violence against women and children, including in disasters and emergency settings. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to safeguarding women’s rights, dignity and well-being during crises and ensuring that no one is left behind.”

Mr. Vu Quoc Huy, Director of the Social Affairs Department at Viet Nam Farmers’ Union expressed the importance of this collaboration: 

“VFU sincerely thanks UNFPA for partnering with the Vietnam Farmers’ Union to support women farmers in areas affected by Typhoon Yagi. The provision of Dignity Kits highlights UNFPA’s commitment to safeguarding women’s dignity and safety. We look forward to continuing this partnership to end gender-based violence in Viet Nam and empower women in vulnerable communities.”

Among the recipients was Ms. Nga, a resident of Yen Dinh Commune and member of the Viet Nam Farmers’ Union, who shared her gratitude:

“I’m so grateful for this support. The pack is very thoughtfully prepared and includes everything we need during this difficult time. After Yagi, many of us felt lost, but this gesture reminds us that we are not alone.”

The ceremony also featured discussions led by UNFPA staff on topics such as hygiene, personal safety, and gender-based violence prevention. These activities emphasized the need for holistic approaches to recovery, addressing both immediate and long-term challenges women face in disaster-hit areas.

This initiative aligns with UNFPA’s mission to advance gender equality, protect the health and dignity of women, and uphold their human rights. By partnering with the Viet Nam Farmers’ Union, UNFPA ensures that these essential resources reach the most vulnerable women, contributing to resilience-building and recovery.

UNFPA remains steadfast in its commitment to collaborating with the Government of Viet Nam and its partners to create a future where every woman and girl can live free from violence.