Hanoi: The new provision in Article 10 of the amended Population Ordinance of Vietnam, which grants decision-making power on childbearing to couples and individuals, marks a significant step forward for human rights, and is a clear expression of Vietnam’s commitment to promoting reproductive autonomy, said Matt Jackson, Country Representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Vietnam. In an interview granted to the Vietnam News Agency on the occasion of the World Population Day 2025 (July 11), Jackson stated that UNFPA fully supports the new provision in the amended ordinance and congratulates Vietnam for this progress.

According to Vietnam News Agency, the amendment is seen as a pivotal development in advancing the rights of individuals and couples to make autonomous decisions about childbearing. The change reflects Vietnam’s ongoing efforts to align its population policies with international human rights standards, particularly in the realm of reproductive rights.

The UNFPA has long advocated for policies that empower individuals with the freedom to make informed decisions about reproduction and family planning. Jackson emphasized that the amended ordinance is a testament to Vietnam’s dedication to these principles, and it represents a significant achievement in the country’s human rights journey.

The amendment to the Population Ordinance is anticipated to have a broad impact, potentially influencing other areas of policy development and human rights in Vietnam. By enshrining reproductive decision-making power in law, Vietnam is setting a precedent that may inspire similar legislative reforms in other countries, furthering global efforts toward reproductive autonomy and human rights.