CARE International’s work in Vietnam
CARE has worked in Vietnam for more than three decades. We had an initial presence in 1954 and a formal return in 1989 as the country launched the Doi Moi economic reforms, which led to a market economy.
In the early years, CARE focused on providing emergency aid and basic services, including clean water, maternal health, and disaster response. As Vietnam's economy became stronger, CARE’s work shifted toward longer-term programs that support communities in building more stable and sustainable livelihoods, particularly in remote areas such as the Northern Mountains and Central Highlands.
Today, CARE works as a partner to address barriers that affect women and marginalized communities, supporting them to build sustainable welfare.
CARE and partners’ work in Vietnam today
CARE Vietnam focuses on helping communities strengthen their livelihoods and prepare for environmental and economic challenges, particularly among women and ethnic minority groups.
Our work focuses on:
Making the economy work for women
CARE supports women to earn an income and grow small businesses by improving access to finance, markets, and digital tools. Programs such as Ignite and its earlier phase, Strive Women, support women entrepreneurs to build and expand businesses. CARE also works with partners in sectors such as garment manufacturing to promote safer and fairer working conditions.
Climate
CARE works with small-scale farmers and local communities to adapt to climate challenges. This includes supporting climate-smart farming practices, improving natural resource management, and helping communities prepare for and recover from climate-related disasters.
Crisis response
We support communities affected by natural disasters, including floods and storms, by providing emergency assistance and helping families recover and rebuild.
CARE works closely with national and local partners, including the Vietnam Women’s Union and community-based organizations, to ensure programs are grounded in local knowledge and priorities.
Focus on women and girls
Women and girls are at the centre of CARE’s work in Vietnam.
CARE works with women from ethnic minority communities, rural areas, and urban sectors to strengthen their access to opportunities and support their participation in community life.
CARE and our partners support women and girls to:
- Earn an income through small businesses, savings groups, and access to markets
- Build skills, including digital and financial skills
- Reduce unpaid care work and strengthen their role in household decision-making
- Participate in community initiatives and local leadership
- Better cope with economic and climate-related challenges
CARE also works with local partners to ensure programs are shaped by women and communities themselves.
In the Northern Mountains, initiatives such as Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs) help women to manage savings and reduce household work. In urban areas, programs like Ignite support women entrepreneurs with digital tools and access to financial services.
By supporting women’s participation in economic and community life, CARE helps families and entire communities thrive across Vietnam.
For recent updates on CARE Vietnam, see here.
