Vietnam
In Vietnam, HI supports the most vulnerable people by improving access to health and social protection services, whilst working towards a more inclusive society.
Occupational therapist Dang Nguyen works with Phuc Nguyen, 2, who has cerebral palsy at Benh Vien Phuc Hoi Chuic Nung Rehabilitation Hospital in Hanoi. | © Molly Feltner / HI
Actions in process
In Vietnam, HI works to promote a more inclusive society and strengthen the rights of the most vulnerable people, particularly those with disabilities. HI’s work combines service strengthening, advocacy and citizen participation.
In the provinces of Gia Lai and Quang Nai (formerly Binh Dinh and Kon Tum), HI is helping to strengthen health systems to improve access to quality services. The organisation supports the development of rehabilitation services by assisting health facilities in building the capacity of professionals, strengthening funding mechanisms and improving information systems. These initiatives lead to sustainable improvements in patient care.
At the same time, HI is rolling out activities in several localities aimed at strengthening social services and community support. The organisation supports the establishment of institutional and home-based care, including mental health support and psychosocial support. HI also works with families and carers to strengthen their skills and promote more inclusive care models and caregiving. Attention is paid to the social and economic inclusion of people with disabilities.
In addition, HI carries out initiatives to combat stigma and discrimination. Through awareness-raising campaigns, engagement with the media and dialogue with public decision-makers, the organisation supports the active participation of people with disabilities and those from under-represented groups in social, educational and professional life. It promotes best practices in inclusive education, access to employment and protection against violence.
Finally, HI supports the development of digital skills and access to accessible technologies, with a view to enhancing the employability of young people with disabilities. The organisation supports local stakeholders in promoting inclusive and accessible digital solutions, whilst strengthening the capacities of civil society organisations. All these actions are accompanied by support for advocacy and the strengthening of public policies, with the aim of sustainably reducing physical, social and institutional barriers and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the changes undertaken.
- Number of HI staff: 15
- Direct beneficiaries supported by HI in 2025: 9,475 people
- Indirect beneficiaries of HI’s actions in 2025: 24,052 people
- Programme launch date: 1989
Areas of intervention
concretely
Situation of the country
Vietnam is a country in South-East Asia with a population of more than 102 million. Thanks to the economic reforms of the 1980s, the country has experienced rapid economic growth, enabling it to achieve middle-income country status. This momentum has contributed to a significant reduction in poverty and an improvement in the population’s living conditions, particularly in terms of education, access to healthcare and life expectancy.
Despite this progress, Vietnam continues to face significant challenges. Regional inequalities persist, particularly between urban and rural areas, as well as within mountainous regions and remote provinces. People living in these areas, particularly ethnic minorities, are more vulnerable to poverty, economic insecurity and limited access to essential public services. The country’s rapid de s also placing increased pressure on social protection, health and employment systems.
The Vietnamese healthcare system has seen significant improvements, but faces challenges regarding quality, funding and equitable access to services, particularly for vulnerable groups. Specialised services, notably in mental health and long-term care, remain underdeveloped.
On the social front, Vietnam continues to strengthen its legal and institutional framework to promote social inclusion and cohesion. However, forms of discrimination and exclusion persist, affecting women, children, people with disabilities and marginalised groups. Gender-based violence remains a significant issue.
The country is also exposed to the effects of climate change, with high vulnerability to natural disasters such as floods, typhoons and rising sea levels, particularly in the Mekong Delta and coastal areas. These phenomena threaten the livelihoods, food security and economic stability of many communities.
In this context, technical, institutional and operational support from specialist organisations is essential to support reforms, strengthen local capacities and promote a human rights-based approach.
- Population: 102 million
- HDI: 0.766 (2023)
- GDP: USD 476.39 billion (2024)
- GDP per capita: USD 4,717.3 (2024)
