Gender equality: How to understand it correctly?

Gender equality is not a new concept, but its correct understanding and implementation in real life still face many limitations. In fact, acts of violence stemming from prejudice and gender inequality still occur, showing that this issue needs more attention.

So, have we truly understood gender equality correctly and completely? Dong Nai Weekend Newspaper has recorded shared perspectives and viewpoints from various sides to discuss this issue.

See things clearly to avoid misunderstandings.

Clause 3, Article 5 of the 2006 Law on Gender Equality clearly states: Gender equality means that men and women have equal positions and roles, are given opportunities to develop their abilities for the common good, and share in the benefits of that progress. This spirit is also consistent with President Ho Chi Minh 's ideology on the equal rights of women in all fields.

Leaders of the Department of Internal Affairs and the People's Committee of Tran Bien Ward presented gifts to disadvantaged households in the province during the launching ceremony of the 2025 Action Month for Gender Equality. Photo: My Ny

From a legal perspective, lawyer Truong Hong Ky of the Dong Nai Provincial Bar Association stated that: The Vietnamese legal system regarding gender equality is quite comprehensive, ranging from specialized laws to regulations on preventing and combating domestic violence. However, in reality, many violations still occur, and gender inequality and domestic violence continue to happen, sometimes with very serious consequences.

"The main reason for this is the limited legal awareness of the people; many people are unaware of the legal regulations on gender equality and the prevention and control of domestic violence. This leads to inappropriate behavior and violations of the law. On the other hand, due to the negative impact of the market mechanism, a segment of the population prioritizes material values, overemphasizes personal ego, and disregards moral and family values," shared lawyer Truong Hong Ky.

Ms. Nguyen Hong Tham (from Binh Phuoc ward) said: "Even with a stable job, I still shoulder most of the household chores. If you consider the total working time both inside and outside the home, women generally work more than men. But the work of caring for the family is rarely recognized as a real contribution," Ms. Tham confided.

Conversely, Mr. Nguyen Van Hoa (from Trang Bom commune) believes that men are also being "bound" by prejudice. "Men must be strong, not weak, and must be the economic pillar. That pressure causes many to neglect their health and not dare to share their feelings," Mr. Hoa expressed.

According to Bui Thi Hanh, Vice President of the Dong Nai Provincial Women's Union, in recent years, gender equality work in Dong Nai has achieved many positive results. Social awareness of the role and status of women has been increasingly raised; women are participating more and more in leadership, management, production, business, and other areas of social life. However, in some places, gender stereotypes, the ideology of "preferring men over women," or the double pressure of women having to both excel in social work and shoulder a large part of household responsibilities still persist. In the workplace, many businesses have paid more attention to policies for female workers, ensuring maternity benefits, improving skills, and creating opportunities for advancement. Nevertheless, certain barriers remain, such as income disparities, unequal access to leadership positions, or a lack of confidence among women themselves when seizing opportunities.

Working together to create real change.

If the root cause of inequality lies in prejudice and traditional stereotypes, then the solution must begin with a change in perception. This is the common view of many.

The family is the first "school" for gender equality. In the photo: The family of Mr. Truong The Thang and Ms. Tran Hoang Giang (in Tran Bien ward). (Illustrative photo: My Ny)

To ensure that gender equality truly becomes a part of daily life instead of just remaining a slogan, Vice President of the Provincial Women's Union Bui Thi Hanh emphasized the need for a comprehensive implementation of multiple solutions. First, it is necessary to continue promoting awareness campaigns about gender equality and the prevention and control of domestic violence; innovate the content and forms of communication; integrate this content into the activities of branches and groups, especially focusing on men and young people to eliminate prejudice at its root.

“To promote gender equality, we need to change how women are portrayed in the media, expanding their image to include leadership, science, entrepreneurship, and other fields to create a more multifaceted perspective. Simultaneously, we need to create conditions for women to achieve economic independence, thereby enhancing their status and voice in society. Furthermore, men need to share family responsibilities so that gender equality becomes a common benefit for both genders.”

Vice President of the Provincial Women's Union, BUI THI HANH

In addition, it is necessary to strengthen support for women's economic development and capacity building by facilitating access to capital, science and technology, and digital transformation; promoting livelihood programs, entrepreneurship, innovation, and replicating effective models, helping women become more confident and proactive.

Simultaneously, focus on protecting the legitimate rights and interests of women and children; monitor policy implementation, promote legal counseling and assistance, and support victims of domestic violence. Pay attention to identifying, nurturing, and developing a pool of qualified female cadres and proposing appropriate mechanisms to build a strong team of female officials capable of meeting new requirements.

Lawyer Truong Hong Ky proposed strengthening the dissemination of legal knowledge, especially in remote areas where the patriarchal mindset is still prevalent. “It is necessary to clarify that violence against women and girls is a violation of the law. Educating and equipping students and young people with legal knowledge and skills to prevent and combat domestic violence from an early age is absolutely essential. At the same time, mechanisms for legal support and psychological counseling must be ensured so that victims are truly protected,” lawyer Truong Hong Ky emphasized.

Many believe that gender equality must be practiced starting with small things like sharing household chores, co-parenting children, and jointly participating in major decision-making. Ms. Pham Thi Tuyet Lan (from Dau Giay commune) expressed: "If sons and daughters in a family are taught the same skills, encouraged to study and pursue their dreams equally, their future will be different."

Kim Lieu

Source: https://baodongnai.com.vn/dong-nai-cuoi-tuan/202603/binh-dang-gioi-hieu-sao-cho-dung-41c13f2/