Improving awareness of gender-based violence in Vietnam

Addressing issues like gender-based violence (GBVH) in clothing factories needs a more creative approach to help change mindsets.

Two of the programmes we support in Vietnam provide the factories we work with a better understanding of the processes and skills to address and prevent GBVH. One of these is Drama for Change, run in partnership with the Atelier Théâtre et Art, which has held improvisation theatre workshops at 13 factories over the last three years to build understand among workers of GBVH. We used these interactive sessions to spark conversations and help workers and management break down stereotypes together, building trust so that people feel more comfortable about reporting GBVH through grievance mechanisms. Off the back of the workshops, our suppliers said there was greater worker awareness and trust, improved skills and confidence among those handling grievances, in addition to stronger policies and procedures.

We are also working with the International Finance Corporation in Vietnam through a programme called Respectful Workplaces. We continue to scale this up locally.