Journal of Institute of Human, Family and Gender studies - Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences
OVERALL CONTENTS OF JOURNAL OF HUMAN, FAMILY AND GENDER STUDIES IN 2025
Tạp chí Nghiên cứu Con người, Gia đình và Giới
Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Human, Family and Gender
The process of human resource development in Binh Phuoc province in the period 1997 - 2010 from a historical perspective
Abstract: After its re-establishment in 1997, Binh Phuoc Province faced numerous challenges related to infrastructure, educational levels, and the capacity of its workforce - especially in the context of the country’s nationwide push for industrialization and modernization. In its socio-economic development strategy for the 1997-2010 period, Binh Phuoc identified human resources as a key factor, playing a decisive role in the transformation of the economic structure and the process of integration. This article focuses on presenting the historical context of the early days following the province’s re-establishment; the guidelines and policies of the Central Government and the Provincial Party Committee regarding human resource development; and the actual state of human resources in Binh Phuoc during the 1997- 2010 period.
Recent impacts of digital transformation on gender relations in Vietnamese families: Issues and policy recommendations
Abstract: This article examines the impacts of digital transformation on gender relations within contemporary Vietnamese families, highlighting changes in the division of labor, decision-making power, internal communication, and intergenerational relationships. Under the influence of technology, some forms of gender inequality have shown signs of decline; however, new forms of inequality have emerged-particularly affecting women, children, and the elderly. Digital transformation presents both opportunities and challenges for fostering families that are equal, democratic, and progressive. Based on the analysis, the article proposes several policy directions and actions to integrate gender considerations into the digitalization of family life, thereby contributing to gender equity and sustainable development in the current context.
Current status of gender differences in the use of digital technology devices
Abstract: The article examines the gender-based disparities in the utilization of digital technology based on 2024 survey data carrying out in the provinces of Bac Kan, Phu Yen, and Can Tho. The study is part of a ministerial-level research project administered by the Vietnam Women's Academy. The findings indicate that smartphones and smart TVs are the two most commonly used devices, with women showing a higher tendency to use smartphones than men. There are distinct gender differences in the purpose and frequency of women’s usage for entertainment, social connection, communication, online shopping, and e-payments. In contrast, men's usage is prioritized for entertainment, work related tasks, administrative procedures, reading news and travel. In terms of application preferences, women tend to use regarding to messaging, social networks, and online banking apps, whereas men favor for education, time management, mapping, and travel. Concerning digital skill proficiency, both man and women demonstrate competence in fundamental skills. Nevertheless, men are more proficiency in advanced skills, whereas women are more proficiency in data protection and basic device operation. The study also notes that women experience greater challenges than men in using digital technologies.
Challenges in education for ethnic minority children in Vietnam
Abstract: Drawing on analysis of national survey data, provincial-level data, and qualitative research, this article identifies the challenges faced by ethnic minority children in general education. Despite substantial state support, disparities in education quality persist between ethnic minority children and the national average. Consequently, higher education opportunities for this group remain limited. Economic conditions, living environments, school infrastructure, learning conditions, language barriers, and gender stereotypes constitute key factors influencing this reality.
Social factors affecting childbirth intention in Vietnam: a sociological perspective
Abstract: This article examines the social determinants of low fertility in Vietnam by approaching childbearing as a form of strategic social behavior. The analysis focuses on three key social factors: (1) the value of children and family resources; (2) social status and life strategies; and (3) perceptions of gender equality. These factors are selected on the basis of three major sociological theories employed in the study: rational choice theory; social status and role theory; gender role theory. These sociological theories inherently allow existing research findings in Vietnam to be integrated into a coherent analytical framework. At the same time, the synthesis of these three theoretical perspectives reflects a novel sociological approach adopted in the article. While fertility levels are used as an outcome indicator, the core emphasis of the analysis is to elucidate the social factors shaping reproductive decision-making.
Mary Wollstonecraft's views on love and marriage in “A Vindication of the Rights of Woman”
Abstract: The article analyzes Mary Wollstonecraft’s perspectives on love, marriage, and gender equality as articulated in A Vindication of the Rights of Woman (1792). Wollstonecraft critically challenged the ideal of romantic love, advocating instead for reason, friendship, and mutual respect as the foundations of marital relations. The study situates her arguments within the socio-historical context of late eighteenth-century England, elucidating the intellectual and moral constraints she faced in advancing the ideal of an egalitarian marriage. It examines how Wollstonecraft conceptualized the interconnection between love, marriage, personal development, and gender equality and compares her views with those of contemporary feminist theories. Through textual analysis and a historical-interpretive approach, the paper affirms the enduring value of Wollstonecraft’s work in promoting gender equality and envisioning marriage as a site of moral and social transformation.
Family culture and orientations for building a family cultural environment at the grassroots level
Abstract: The family constitutes the basic cell of society, serving as the primary and most enduring environment in the journey of forming, nurturing, and educating human personality, thereby preserving and promoting national cultural values. Amidst industrialization, modernization, and international integration, the structure of the Vietnamese family is undergoing rapid transformation, presenting both opportunities and challenges to the foundational values and cultural environment of the family. This article synthesizes the concepts and components of family culture; updates recent empirical indicators on family size, the prevalence of marital violence against women, and related issues; reviews the current policy framework and legal provisions; and proposes orientations for content and a set of solutions to build a grassroots family cultural environment that is affluent, progressive, egalitarian, and happy, aligning with contemporary sustainable development imperatives.
Sounds of consciousness - a philosophical approach to the depth of consciousness
Abstract: “The sound of consciousness” is posed as a philosophical metaphor to approach the nature of human consciousness, suggesting the ability to listen to the subtle vibrations of inner life. From the Eastern tradition with its reflections on mind, nature and enlightenment, to Western phenomenology and existentialism with its efforts to explain life experience and presence, many diverse arguments are deployed to clarify the internal operation of consciousness, spiritual echoes and inner depths that are often obscured in modern life. Thereby, the study of consciousness is affirmed not only on the epistemological level, but also as a path of life, associated with the desire for freedom, the awakening of the ego and the ability to liberate people from social, spiritual and cultural constraints in the contemporary context.
Human development in China and Vietnam in the period 1995 - 2025 through data from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
Abstract: Prior to 1980, both China and Vietnam were mired in all standards of poverty and underdevelopment. The Cultural Revolution in China and the socio-economic crisis in Vietnam have severely affected human development. By the policies of “Khai phóng” (Liberation) and “Doi moi” (Renovation), from the mid-80s (twentieth century), China began to “rise” and Vietnam began to develop. With a growth rate of over 10% during 30 years, China has truly become a fast-growing and spectacular power. In 2010, China's economy surpassed Japan to take second place in the world. In 2009, Vietnam also entered the first threshold of middle income. In the causal relationship with socio-economic fluctuations, the reality of human development in China and in Vietnam over the past 30 years, period 1995 - 2025, has in fact achieved achievements that not many people dared to dream of before. Economic people, biological people, cultural people, v.v. in China and in Vietnam, there have been positive changes. In 2014, China became one of 52 countries to meet the “High Human Development” standard. After 6 years, in 2020, Vietnam also met this standard. In 2025, the happiness index of Chinese people ranked 68th and Vietnam 46th out of 143 countries surveyed - that is, at a fairly high level in Asia and the world.
Table of Contents Journal of Human, Family and Gender Studies No. 3(03) 2025
Research, application and creative development of Ho Chi Minh's thought in the development of Vietnamese people - perspectives, orientations, solutions through 2030 and vision to 2045
Abstract: The article outlines 11 fundamental contents of Ho Chi Minh's thought on humans and human development: the connotation and extension encompass from humanity as a whole to the individual person; the essence of humans is largely shaped by education; political liberation of humans comes first; economic liberation of humans; cultural liberation; labor liberation; social liberation; liberation of creative capacity; comprehensive human development; realization of human rights; humans as the center, driving force, goal, and subject. Subsequently, the article elaborates the connotations of the new era with new domestic contexts (comprising 5 contents) and international contexts (also comprising 5 distinct contents). On that basis, the article proposes 7 main policy orientations and solutions aimed at researching, applying, and creatively developing Ho Chi Minh's thought in building and developing Vietnamese people toward 2030, with a vision to 2045: First, continue raising awareness; Second, innovate methods of learning, application, and creative development; Third, selectively absorb and apply progressive thoughts; Fourth, decisively breakthrough bottlenecks; Fifth, breakthrough in institutions for human building and development; Sixth, build a system of human values; Seventh, 6 specific solutions for Party members and Party organizations.
Overview of research on LGBT access to employment
Abstract: This article summarizes the current status of employment access of the LGBT community (gay, bisexual and transgender people) through existing research works. Studies show that there are differences in access to employment within each group, specifically that transgender people have a harder time getting a job, paying a salary, or getting a promotion. At the same time, the article also analyzes the barriers to access to employment services of the LGBT community, whereby stigma and discrimination are considered major barriers for this group. On the basis of the above analysis, the article also offers suggestions for further research directions on the employment of the LGBT community.
Training human resources for building a shared digital library model for Vietnamese university libraries
Abstract: The shared digital library model among universities is an inevitable trend to optimize resources and improve the quality of training and research in the context of digital transformation in education. A survey of 500 staff members from 88 university libraries shows that while the workforce has a solid professional foundation, they remain limited in foreign language proficiency, information security, and system interoperability. Training needs focus on digital library operations, information technology, soft skills, management, foreign languages, and legal-copyright knowledge. The paper proposes three groups of solutions: innovating interdisciplinary training programs linked to practice; providing intensive training in information technology, data standardization, artificial intelligence, and copyright management; and establishing an inter-university human resource network. The results aim to develop a modern, sustainable digital library ecosystem that will serve Vietnam’s higher education sector in the long term.
Transformations in the livelihoods of the Hmong people in Muong Long commune, Nghe An province after the 1986 Doi moi reform
Abstract: Since the Doi moi (reforms) process of 1986, the livelihoods of ethnic minority communities in Vietnam, including the Hmong, have undergone significant changes under the influence of socio-economic development policies and the process of integration. Drawing on a case study of the Hmong in Muong Long commune, Nghe An province, this article examines the transition from shifting cultivation to sedentary agriculture, as well as the shift from subsistence production to more diversified livelihood strategies. These new livelihood practices include the expansion of livestock raising, livestock trading, labor migration, and community-based tourism. The article highlights the role of state policies, local conditions, and ethnic social networks in shaping Hmong livelihoods. It demonstrates that, while the transformation of livelihoods has created new economic opportunities, it has also posed challenges to sustainable development.
Factors that influence the process of occupational inheritance across generations within families in traditional craft villages in Thanh Hoa province
Abstract: This paper focuses on analyzing the factors that influence the process of occupational inheritance across generations within families in three representative traditional craft villages in Thanh Hoa province, Vietnam - namely Tra Dong bronze casting village, Nga Son sedge mat weaving village, and Nhoi stone carving village. Based on the theoretical framework of social mobility by Sabura Yasuda, Pierre Bourdieu’s theory of cultural capital, and the rational choice approach, the study employs a mixed-methods design combining quantitative surveys (300 craft-making households) and qualitative techniques (observation and document analysis) to measure the Yasuda index and identify factors influencing intergenerational occupational continuity. The findings indicate a downward trend in occupational inheritance by the third generation, along with a sharp increase in the Yasuda index and circular mobility rates. Key determinants include socio-economic restructuring, the impact of craft village development policies, gender-based labor division, the role of master artisans, the level of production mechanization, and the potential for tourism integration. This research contributes to a clearer understanding of occupational mobility in the context of rural modernization and offers policy implications for the sustainable development and revitalization of traditional craft villages in Vietnam.
The perceptions of happiness among people in the Mekong Delta
Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to analyze the perceptions of happiness among people in the Mekong Delta, from their conceptual understanding to their lived reality. The study employed a sociological survey method with a random sample of 600 residents from Can Tho City and the provinces of Tien Giang (Đong Thap), Soc Trang (Can Tho city), and Ca Mau. The paper examines respondents’ evaluations of happiness through two dimensions: (1) their conceptual views on the factors constituting happiness and (2) their perceived levels of happiness. The findings reveal that health, employment, and income, as well as family and friendship relations, are the most important factors shaping the happiness of people in the Mekong Delta, alongside other influences. Overall, the level of happiness among residents is relatively high; however, as happiness levels increase, there is a tendency for the proportion of respondents reporting higher levels of happiness to decline. The distribution of happiness perceptions takes the form of a bulge in the middle-most respondents fall into the “moderately happy” category-while tapering off at both extremes (“very happy” and “very unhappy”). This indicates that Mekong Delta residents generally perceive themselves as moderately happy, with fewer reporting very high levels of happiness. These perceptions also vary according to demographic characteristics. This finding has significant implications for the formulation of development strategies for the Mekong Delta in the coming period.
Cultural and human values of Binh Dinh land: tradition and modernity
Abstract: The article analyzes the distinctive cultural values and exemplary human qualities of Binh Dinh from tradition to the present. Drawing on secondary-source research, it synthesizes and examines core cultural and character values of this region, including patriotism, compassion, martial spirit, respect for literature and scholarly values, diligence, and “thàng hậu” (a local colloquialism denoting forthrightness coupled with benevolence). It also assesses contemporary dynamics of change in these cultural values and traits. On that basis, the article proposes recommendations to safeguard and promote the invaluable heritage and virtuous traditions of Binh Dinh’s culture and people in the modern context.
Some issues of anti-cultural assimilation during the Northern colonial period - lessons learned for the protection and promotion of Vietnamese cultural identity today
Abstract: Vietnamese culture, rooted in the ancient states of Van Lang - Au Lac, has always been closely tied to wet rice agriculture and a strong sense of community. Throughout more than a thousand years of Northern domination, the Vietnamese people managed to preserve their indigenous way of life and distinctive moral values, effectively resisting cultural assimilation policies and foreign rule. This article explores the methods used to protect Vietnamese culture and ideology and to counter cultural assimilation efforts during that period, highlighting the nation's resilient spirit. From this, it draws valuable lessons for safeguarding and promoting Vietnam's national cultural identity today.
Discussion of the alienation of man from Marx's approach
Abstract: The article explores a hotly debated topic in philosophical research - human alienation. The article aims to clarify the basic content of human alienation and draw its significance for human development from the perspective of Karl Marx's philosophy. Applying the methodology of Marxist critical philosophy, the author finds that humans live by the products of labor. The creative and free nature of humans is affirmed through labor and labor products. Society is not only the result of human labor producing products, but also the result of product exchange between humans (social exchange). The nature of humans is creative and free, and the nature of society is fair and equal. However, human alienation also manifests itself as the negation of humans, that is, humans are alienated in labor producing products and social exchange. Correctly understanding human alienation is the basis for human development today.
The convergence between Ho Chi Minh's educational thought and the educational philosophy of the XXI century
Abstract: In the context of globalization and the profound transformation of global education in the 21st century, the establishment of a humanistic, liberal, creative, and sustainability-oriented educational philosophy has become an urgent requirement. Modern educational philosophy not only affirms the central role of learners but also emphasizes the cultivation of adaptive capacity, critical thinking, and a sense of social responsibility in each individual within an ever-changing world. In the history of Vietnamese intellectual development, Ho Chi Minh, with his profound views on the content, objectives, and methods of educating well-rounded individuals to meet the demands of socialist revolution, continues to hold enduring value and strong vitality. This paper focuses on analyzing the convergence between Ho Chi Minh’s educational thought and the educational philosophy of the 21st century, clarifying their similarities in conceptions of objectives, content, and methods of education, while assessing the significance of this convergence for the fundamental and comprehensive renovation of Vietnam’s education today.
Researches on family and gender at the Institute for Human, Family and Gender Studies and some research orientations in the coming time
Abstract: The Institute for Human, Family and Gender Studies (abbreviated as the Institute) was officially established in April 2025 on the basis of a merger from the Institute for Human Studies (established in 1999) and the Institute for Family and Gender Studies (established in 1987). Since its establishment, the topic of family and gender has been the key research content of the Institute. Over the past 40 years, the Institute has implemented many national and international research programs and projects related to the family and gender. On the basis of a synthesis of the Institute's published research works, this article analyzes a number of research results on the family and gender conducted by the Institute over the past 40 years. The article highlights the Institute's main contributions to the transfer of knowledge as well as advice on policy development to promote gender equality and build strong Vietnamese families. At the same time, in the practical that family and gender characteristics in Vietnam are constantly changing under the impact of industrialization, modernization, and recently the process of digital transformation and international integration taking place extensively, the article raises some directions for research and policy advice on family and gender in the coming time in order to best serve the country's innovation.
Table of Contents Journal of Human, Family and Gender Studies No. 2(02) 2025
Financial capacity for sustainable poverty reduction of Muong households in Thanh Hoa, Vietnam
Abstract: This study examines the capacity of Muong ethnic households in Thanh Hoa province to access and effectively utilize financial capital and identifies the factors that influence this capacity in the context of sustainable poverty reduction. Employing a mixed-methods approach, findings from a survey of 1200 households and in-depth interviews reveal a key paradox: while access to policy-based capital is relatively favorable, the ability of poor families to use this capital effectively is severely limited. Key barriers hindering effective capital utilization include low educational attainment, a lack of production skills, and psychological obstacles. Conversely, households that have escaped poverty demonstrate markedly better capital utilization. Based on these findings, the study proposes integrated policy solutions that emphasize coupling credit support with investments in human capital and technical assistance to foster sustainable poverty reduction.
Views on remarriage of men and women after divorce (through a qualitative study in Hanoi)
Abstract: Based on qualitative data from the institutional-level research project “Perspectives and Intentions of Remarriage among Men and Women after Divorce: A Study in Hanoi”, this article analyzes the remarriage perspectives of divorced men and women. The study applies the Gender and Development (GAD) approach and selects six of the most information-rich cases from a total of 30 research participants for in-depth analysis. The findings reveal that, from a gender perspective, both men and women generally support the idea of remarriage. However, at the individual level, they are not yet ready to remarry and have not set a specific timeframe for doing so, largely because they continue to prioritize caring for their children.
The impacts of natural disasters on the education opportunities of ethnic minority children
Abstract: This paper analyzes the multidimensional impacts of natural disasters on the learning opportunities of ethnic minority children in Truong Xuan Commune, Quang Ninh District, Quang Binh Province (currently renamed Truong Son Commune, Quang Tri Province). The analysis is based on qualitative data collected from 28 in-depth interviews and two focus group discussions with ethnic minority children, parents, teachers, school administrators, and local authorities. In addition, secondary data sources were employed to supplement the analysis. The findings reveal that natural disasters not only damage educational infrastructure and learning equipment but also disrupt school attendance, undermine sanitation and safety conditions, and adversely affect students’ physical and mental health. Disasters simultaneously erode household livelihoods and increase the burden of child labor, with girls being more vulnerable to these effects. Furthermore, factors such as geographical distance, economic constraints, and socio-cultural norms exacerbate gender and ethnic disparities in access to education. This paper provides important empirical evidence to inform policy and program interventions aimed at ensuring equal educational rights and enhancing the adaptive and recovery capacities of all children - especially ethnic minority children - in the face of increasingly complex natural disasters and climate change.
Farmers’ perceptions, attitudes, and engagement in rice production linkages in one commune of Hung Yen Province
Abstract: This article analyzes farmers’ perceptions, attitudes, and engagement in rice production linkages among 200 households in Hung Ha Commune, Hung Yen Province (surveyed in 2025), using quantitative methods. Results show that farmers’ perception of the necessity of linkages is moderate. Among them, men, younger individuals, those with higher education, better living standards, and members of social organizations showing more positive perceptions. The benefits of linkages are primarily recognized in production inputs, while trust in marketing and brand development remains limited. Farmers tend to be more satisfied with traditional linkages (relatives, neighbors) than with agricultural cooperatives or enterprises. Logistic regression analysis shows identify education, credit access, participation in social organizations, positive attitudes, trust, and the role of agricultural cooperatives as significant factors influencing participation in linkages. As a case study, the findings are exploratory and warrant further investigation on a larger scale.
Ho Chi Minh's views on the relationship between humans and weapons in military activities, applied in the defense of the Fatherland today
Summary: President Ho Chi Minh - a great thinker, a genius military strategist of the nation, laid the foundation for building the people's armed forces, the national defense and the art of war of the Vietnamese people in the new era. The unique feature in his military thought is always to respect and properly resolve the relationship between people and weapons. Recognizing and properly resolving this relationship is the basis for our Party to apply and enhance military strength in defending the Fatherland today.