Violence against women continues to occur at increasingly serious levels. This is a major obstacle to promoting gender equality and building a progressive society.

The problem not only takes place in the shadows of family homes but also occurs in public places.

Clips of husbands beating wives spread online

Recently, social media circulated a clip showing a man in Phu Khe ward (Bac Ninh) repeatedly grabbing the hair and violently beating his wife in the yard, then dragging her into the house. Notably, the violent act occurred in front of a young child. Another clip showed a pregnant woman being slapped repeatedly by her husband in the obstetrics department of Lam Dong Hospital II (B’Lao ward), causing public outrage.

In mid-May, social media featured another clip showing a man storming into a hair salon in Phuong Duc commune (Hanoi), cursing and repeatedly hitting a woman holding a young child on the head. A teenage boy accompanying him also rushed in and slapped the victim.

On May 16, Hanoi police issued a decision to initiate a criminal case for public disorder to clarify an incident where two young women reported being harassed and assaulted on Hoang Cau Street. Previously, social media had circulated several videos and images of two groups of men and women fighting on the sidewalk of a coffee shop on Hoang Cau Street, stemming from a conflict in the building’s elevator.

On May 19, Hanoi City Police stated that the investigation police had detained Tran Binh Minh (21 years old, residing in Hoang Liet ward, Hanoi) for investigation into public disorder. Earlier, due to a romantic conflict, this young man had chased and assaulted his girlfriend and another girl on Xuan Dinh Street.

One easily observable aspect in Vietnamese culture: When witnessing women being abused, a significant portion of the public blames the victim (i.e., the woman) as the cause of the violence, even though the person responsible is clearly the perpetrator.

Patriarchal mindset and blaming women remain serious

According to a recent national survey on violence against women in Vietnam, conducted jointly by the General Statistics Office, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), and the Australian Embassy in Vietnam, approximately 2 out of 3 women (about 66%) have experienced one or more forms of physical, sexual, emotional, or economic violence, as well as controlling behavior by their husbands in their lifetime. Younger women, aged 20 to 44, are at higher risk of experiencing physical, sexual, or emotional violence than women in other age groups.

The issue of violence against women is not just a collection of heartbreaking numbers; it is also a mirror reflecting the inequalities that persist in society.

To this day, patriarchal thinking remains deeply ingrained in the lifestyle and mindset of many people. Women become dependents within the family. There is also the existence of men who live withdrawn lives, have little understanding of the law, lack employment, feel constantly inferior and discouraged, and fall into gambling, drinking, and other social vices. Consequently, they become dissatisfied with life and are ready

Phu Khe ward

Phu Khe ward is a local administrative area located in the city of Buôn Ma Thuột, in the Central Highlands province of Đắk Lắk, Vietnam. Historically, the region is known for its rich indigenous culture, particularly that of the Ê Đê people, and played a role in the development of the area’s coffee industry during the French colonial period. Today, it serves as a residential and commercial hub, blending modern urban life with the cultural heritage of the highlands.

Bac Ninh

Bac Ninh is a province in northern Vietnam, historically significant as the heartland of the ancient kingdom of Âu Lạc and later a key cultural center during the Ly and Tran dynasties. It is renowned as the birthplace of Quan Họ folk singing, a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, and is home to numerous historic pagodas, temples, and festivals. Today, Bac Ninh is also a major industrial hub, blending its rich cultural heritage with rapid economic development.

Lam Dong Hospital II

Lam Dong Hospital II, located in the Central Highlands of Vietnam, is a key medical facility that serves the healthcare needs of the local population. Originally established as part of the region’s post-war development efforts, it has expanded over the years to offer a range of specialized services. The hospital plays a vital role in providing accessible medical care to the communities in Lam Dong Province.

B’Lao ward

B’Lao ward is a rural administrative area located in Bảo Lộc city, Lâm Đồng Province, Vietnam. Historically, the region was part of the Central Highlands and became known for its tea and coffee plantations, established during the French colonial period. Today, B’Lao is recognized for its scenic mountain landscapes and agricultural production, contributing to the local economy and cultural identity.

Phuong Duc commune

Phuong Duc is a rural commune located in the Phu Vang district of Thua Thien Hue province, central Vietnam. Historically, the area is part of the rich cultural landscape surrounding the former imperial capital of Hue, with its economy traditionally based on agriculture, particularly rice cultivation. Today, it remains a peaceful, predominantly farming community that reflects the enduring rural traditions of the region.

Hanoi

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is one of the oldest cities in Southeast Asia, with a history dating back over a thousand years. It served as the political center of various dynasties and was heavily influenced by French colonial rule from the late 19th to mid-20th century, which is reflected in its unique blend of ancient temples and French architecture. Today, Hanoi is known for its vibrant street life, rich cultural heritage, and landmarks like Hoan Kiem Lake and the Temple of Literature.

Hoang Cau Street

Hoang Cau Street is a notable road in Hanoi, Vietnam, located in the Đống Đa District. Historically, the area was part of a larger region known for its traditional craft villages and agricultural land, but it has since developed into a bustling urban neighborhood. Today, the street is recognized for its lively local markets, eateries, and proximity to landmarks like the Hoang Cau Lake and the nearby Giang Vo Exhibition Center.

Xuan Dinh Street

Xuan Dinh Street is a notable road in Hanoi, Vietnam, located in the Bac Tu Liem District. Historically, it was part of a rural area that has rapidly urbanized in recent decades, reflecting the city’s expansion and modernization. Today, the street is known for its residential neighborhoods and local businesses, serving as a quiet corridor away from the city’s busier thoroughfares.