Impact of international legislative regulations on domestic violence against women in a developing country. Some practical reflections

Oanh Thi Cao; Tuan Vu Van

doi:10.19184/jseahr.v10i1.53730

Authors

Oanh Thi Cao Hanoi Law University (HLU), Vietnam
Tuan Vu Van Hanoi Law University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.19184/jseahr.v10i1.53730

Keywords:

domestic violence, framework, gender equality, legislative regulations, patriarchal norms

Abstract

Domestic violence against women is a global concern, particularly in developing countries like Vietnam, where cultural, social, challenges hinder effective prevention and response. This study examined the current policy of domestic violence regulations for women in Vietnam in line with international standards. It identified loopholes that need to be overcome for better enforcement. The study employed a qualitative structural comparative research design to demonstrate, compare and analyse current legal normative documents in Vietnam together with international legislative instruments. The outcomes reveal significant challenges related to the inadequate legal definitions, lack of enforcement mechanisms, and the gender-insensitive nature of the current laws of Vietnam. Besides, cultural factors, such as deep-rooted patriarchal norms, further complicate the situation, which greatly creates barriers for victims to seek justice. Furthermore, the results show that while Vietnam has made progress in ratifying the alignment of international legislative instruments, the actual adoption of these normative regulations in practice is still not very effective. Policymakers in Vietnam should narrow legal definitions, make laws more gender-inclusive, expand enforcement and judicial support policies, and allocate resources to provide support services for victims. Therefore, the critical role of international organisations in assisting Vietnam in policy reforms also requires local authorities to customise international frameworks into the national context. The research findings would contribute valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities for enhancing Vietnam's legal system to better protect women from domestic violence, which in turn could serve as a roadmap for future legislative reforms.

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