80% of trafficked women forced into marriage, sexual exploitation: report

Since 2012 Vietnamese authorities have successfully rescued nearly 8,500 victims, 98% of whom were trafficked internationally, with China being the top destination.

Some 80% of trafficked women were forced into marriages to local men or otherwise sexually exploited.

The majority of victims were unemployed or rural farmers facing significant personal or family hardships.

Around 37% of the victims were illiterate and 7% were students or other young women who were enticed by false promises of regular employment, high incomes or marriage to wealthy foreign men.

Identifying and rescuing victims remains particularly challenging due to the clandestine nature of trafficking crimes.

Despite existing support systems, the report highlighted gaps in meeting victims' basic needs and providing psychological, medical and financial assistance.

To address the shortcomings, the health ministry proposes a draft decree for thorough enforcement of the Law on Prevention and Combat of Human Trafficking, which will take effect on July 1.

The decree expands victims' eligibility for support to include individuals still undergoing verification and minors accompanying potential victims.

Earlier it was provided only for poor people.

Victims will now be entitled to comprehensive support, including temporary housing, meals, basic medical care, psychological counseling, legal aid for essential documents, vocational training and educational assistance.

Enhanced protective measures will include confidentiality safeguards, safety protocols to protect victims from threats, their relocation if needed, and in camera court proceedings to protect their identities.

A national 24-hour hotline for reporting trafficking cases will be established to ensure swift action and support from relevant authorities such as the police, investigators, border guards, courts, victim support centers, and Vietnamese embassies abroad.