The 15th virtual ASEAN GO-NGO Forum on Social Welfare and Development took place on September 21.

Deputy head of the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs’ International
Cooperation Department Ha Thi Minh Duc (Source: VNA)

 The annual event is held within the framework of the ASEAN Senior Officials Meeting on Social Welfare and Development (SOMSWD).

 Themed “Strengthening Family Resilience and Solidarity: Braving the Adversity and Adapting to the New Normal”, it is part of efforts by the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community to battle COVID-19.

 Addressing the event, deputy head of the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs’ International Cooperation Department Ha Thi Minh Duc said COVID-19 has posed many socio-economic and medical challenges across the globe.

 The pandemic has also dealt a blow to the lives of people, especially women, children, and families, she added.

 More than 30 million Vietnamese have been affected by the disease and incomes have slumped 57 percent. Earnings from agriculture at half of families in rural areas are down 38 percent, while garment-textile is among the hardest-hit sectors.

 In addition to curbing the spread of COVID-19, the Vietnamese Government and relevant agencies have rolled out a number of measures to support people affected by the pandemic and to recover business operations.

 Delegates discussed family problems, particularly those arising from COVID-19, noting that the pandemic has had a major impact on vulnerable families in ethnic minority groups, those with non-official workers, and migrants. Quality and all-round access to essential services, including health care for mothers and children, education, and welfare are also hindered by the pandemic.

 They also exchanged views on enhancing the role of families as an essential support system, and protecting families across ASEAN.

 Stories from ASEAN nations on strengthening family resilience and solidarity amid COVID-19 were also shared.