Sex trafficking in Vietnam

Sex trafficking in Vietnam is human trafficking for the purpose of sexual exploitation and slavery that occurs in the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. Vietnam is a source and, to a lesser extent, destination country for sexually trafficked persons.

Sex trafficking victims in the country are from many ethnic groups in Vietnam. Vietnamese citizens, primarily women and girls, have been sex trafficked into other countries in Asia and there have been cases of even in different continents such as Europe. They are often forced into prostitution, and marriages. Victims are threatened and physically and psychologically harmed. Some contract sexually transmitted diseases from rapes, abuse and malnutrition are common. Some women and girls are tortured and or murdered.

Male and female perpetrators come from a wide range of backgrounds and a number are members of or facilitated by organized crime syndicates and gangs.

The extent of sex trafficking in Vietnam is difficult to determine due to factors such as limited data, the clandestine nature of trafficking activities, challenges in victim identification, and other related issues. Efforts to enforce sex trafficking laws and investigate cases have been commonly in the past affected by challenges including corruption, insufficient cooperation between sectors, border management issues, and gaps in anti-trafficking legislation, though the government is actively trying to combat it. Passing several laws to combat sex trafficking, including the 2015 Law on Preventing and Combating Human Trafficking. Which criminalises trafficking for exploitation, and protecting victims through rehabilitation and legal support and the 2015 Penal Code, which severely criminalises trafficking giving harsh sentences for trafficking minors and to organised crime groups who do so commonly the death penalty. The code ensures victim are provided protection, rehabilitation services, and compensation. It also emphasises international cooperation and sets out the responsibilities of various government bodies and NGOs. The National Plan of Action (2016-2020) improves coordination and prosecution efforts, while the country adheres to the United Nations Palermo Protocol, the Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children. Despite these laws, enforcement challenges are still ongoing.

Additionally, the increased regional integration under the Association of South East Asian Nations which allows for freer movement of trade and capital, may present new challenges in addressing sex trafficking.