Seminar on international experience and consultancy for the draft Law on Gender Transformation (Photo: daidoanket.vn)

On November 21, 2015, the National Assembly passed the revised Civil Code recognizing the right to gender reassignment. This is considered an important step in changing the way of thinking and recognizing gender diversity.

The recognition, respect, protection, and ensuring of human rights and citizens' rights is a priority of the Vietnamese Party and State. Since January 1, 2017 when the 2015 Civil Code took effect, Vietnam has allowed gender reassignment.

However, which individuals are allowed to undergo gender reassignment surgery, which medical examination and treatment facilities are allowed to perform sex assignment surgery, details of the gender transition process, and the procedures for transgender people to register as their new gender haven’t been specified.

The seminar was held by the Center for Supporting Community Development Initiatives, UNAIDS, and the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women).