Vietnam’s social welfare system is undergoing significant enhancements aimed at improving the lives of its vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly and low-income families. These initiatives reflect the Vietnamese government’s commitment to alleviate poverty and provide holistic support, ensuring improved quality of life for its citizens.
On February 27, 2025, at a signing event for the ODA agreement, Ito Naoki, Japan's Ambassador to Vietnam, emphasized the importance of innovation, stating, "This project aims to train new entrepreneurs and build facilities for community workspace." The project has been outlined under Vietnam's National Strategy concerning elder care, which sets ambitious goals for the country.
The strategy intends to provide at least 100,000 elderly per year with vocational training and support for entrepreneurship, creating opportunities for them to participate actively within the workforce. Alongside this, 100% of senior citizens are expected to have healthcare access, with the goal of ensuring 90% receive timely health check-ups, according to the UNDP. "At least 50% of elderly individuals with the capacity to work will find jobs," stated UNDP representatives during the discussions on the strategy.
Local authorities have expressed their determination to implement these initiatives efficiently. A spokesperson mentioned, “We prioritize enhancing the social welfare system to provide for vulnerable communities.” Among various planned actions, the government aims to offer financial assistance to approximately 100,000 households where elderly members need support.
Communities are encouraged to participate actively, with growing initiatives like the “Road of the National Flag” program, which emphasizes community involvement and national pride, and aims to improve living conditions by enhancing public infrastructure. Other efforts include campaigns to support healthy living, with food banks and community kitchens offering meals to those who find it difficult to access food.
The impact of these collective efforts is significant. Since the establishment of the Support Fund for Farmers, many families have successfully transitioned to agricultural models yielding high returns. “This new approach allows farmers access to necessary funds for investing,” commented local leaders, highlighting the financial benefits seen across villages.
Currently, the remaining funds and loans exceed 2.5 billion VND, helping farmers adopt modern methods and improved technology. Active participation and community support signify the collaborative effort required to uplift those most vulnerable.
Under this social welfare enhancement, elderly individuals will not only receive healthcare and vocational support but also be encouraged to engage with community activities, combating feelings of isolation often reported among older generations. 10,000 elderly citizens unable to care for themselves will have access to community support services, including rehabilitation and social interaction opportunities.
These programs, part of Vietnam’s commitment to building a sustainable future, highlight the focus on nurturing communal relations and improving overall happiness. By 2045, Vietnam aspires to be recognized as a developed nation—these welfare programs are key to achieving such aspirations, as echoed by state officials.
International backing, such as the partnership with Japan through the ODA project, provides significant resources, reinforcing the governmental strategies with expertise and community enrichment goals. Future endeavors will integrate diverse perspectives, particularly prioritizing women-led entrepreneurial initiatives and making sure at least 30% of new businesses are women-led.
Vietnam's approach to social welfare is comprehensive and consists of improving livelihood opportunities, ensuring health care access, community support, and educational advancement for the elderly. Initiatives being laid now momentum to reach envisioned heights, signalling hope and progress amid the underlying challenges.
Overall, the Vietnam government’s programs to uplift its elderly population and those with financial constraints reflect broader social justice objectives—ones committed not only to functionally delivering support but also empowering communities to come together, enhancing solidarity and social cohesion.