The Viet Nam Population Change and Family Planning Survey 2021 was conducted on 1 April 2021 as specified by Decision No. 1903/QD-TCTK dated 30 December 2020 of the Director General of the General Statistics Office. This annual survey collects information about the population of Viet Nam, including basic characteristics of the population, population changes and the extent to which family planning methods are used. The survey data provides the basis for synthesizing and compiling indicators on population and family planning in six indicator frameworks: national level; planning, investment and statistics; Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN); the sustainable development of Viet Nam; and youth and gender. The data also assists those working in the field of population and family planning with assessments and planning, and is used for building a national database on population and family planning, meeting the needs of domestic and foreign private users and ensures international comparability.

For the first time, the 2021 survey included a new module on older persons and their care needs and situation. Following the General Statistics Office (GSO)’s study on population ageing and older persons in Viet Nam based on the 2019 Population and Housing Census, the health issues and care needs of older persons have continued to be analysed. The evidence gathered on the socioeconomic and health status and care needs of older persons will be used to make appropriate policy recommendations for an ageing population and to build a sustainable society.