In a significant step towards promoting gender equality, Vietnam Airlines has entered into a collaborative partnership with UN Women for the period 2024-2026. The alliance, formally established on October 15, 2024, in Hanoi, signals a commitment to advancing gender equality and empowering women within the organization and the broader community.
The partnership was solidified during a talk show titled “HeForShe: Promoting Gender Equality in Business – Enhancing Women’s Economic Empowerment,” hosted jointly by Vietnam Airlines and UN Women. This event brought together over 100 participants from diverse sectors, including businesses, government ministries, and relevant organizations. It underscored the critical role of leadership and male involvement in fostering a workplace environment that is fair and inclusive.
As part of this collaborative effort, Vietnam Airlines and UN Women will launch several key initiatives aimed at raising awareness about gender equality. These initiatives will include educational sessions designed for the airline’s leadership and workforce. The sessions will focus on addressing gender disparities and combating gender-based violence, creating a more equitable workplace.
Beyond internal efforts, the partners will prioritize empowering women economically through workshops and conferences. These events will facilitate the exchange of successful practices with other companies in Vietnam that adhere to the Women’s Empowerment Principles (WEPs).
Mr. Dang Ngoc Hoa, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Vietnam Airlines, expressed the airline’s commitment to social responsibility and workplace equity. He stated, “Partnering with UN Women and joining the HeForShe solidarity movement not only reflects our tremendous commitment to social responsibility but also workplace equity. We believe that gender equality benefits not only women but also enhances overall productivity and service quality at Vietnam Airlines.”
By joining forces with UN Women, Vietnam Airlines reaffirms its commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 5: Gender Equality. The airline is dedicated to cultivating a just and sustainable work environment where every employee has equal opportunities for career advancement.
Mrs. Caroline Nyamayamombe, UN Women Country Representative in Vietnam, highlighted the significance of this collaboration. She emphasized, “This cooperation agreement demonstrates how state-owned enterprises can play a vital role in achieving Vietnam’s gender equality objectives and creating a safe and fair work environment for all. We hope the initiative will inspire other enterprises to join us on this journey.”
As Vietnam’s national airline, Vietnam Airlines assumes a leading role in driving societal progress towards a more equitable society. The airline has consistently implemented impactful social initiatives aimed at challenging societal norms and stereotypes, promoting active participation across genders.
One notable example is the ‘pink flight’ organized on October 1, 2024, in collaboration with UN Women. This flight, part of the HeForShe campaign, provided essential appliances to a shelter for women and children in Can Tho City who have been affected by gender-based violence.
The HeForShe initiative, launched by UN Women in 2014, mobilizes men and individuals of all genders to support women in their efforts to achieve gender equality. This movement has rallied leaders, corporations, and public figures worldwide to advocate for gender parity.
Through this impactful partnership with UN Women, Vietnam Airlines continues its commitment to promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment, setting a positive example for businesses and organizations across the nation.