THE IMPACT OF CUSTOMARY LAW ON GENDER EQUALITY IN VARIOUS ASPECTS OF SOCIAL LIFE IN ETHNIC MINORITY AREAS OF TUYEN QUANG PROVINCE

Abstract

Gender equality is one of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to which both the United Nations and the Government of Viet Nam have committed. However, in ethnic minority areas, the progress toward achieving gender equality still faces significant obstacles due to the persistence of outdated customary norms that are inconsistent with legal provisions on gender equality. Customary law not only reflects distinctive cultural values but also embodies traditional gender stereotypes, which often create barriers to the equal participation of women and girls in various aspects of social life. This article examines the current impact of customary law on gender equality across different domains of social life in ethnic minority communities of Tuyen Quang Province. On that basis, it discusses several solutions aimed at promoting the positive role of customary law in advancing gender equality in the province.