Title: The rights of transgender in Vietnam – discussions on gender reassignment regulations

Authors: Hoa Thi Thai Nguyen; Thanh Tram Trieu Nguyen; Nhan Ngoc Thanh Nguyen; Dung Nguyen Mai

Addresses: College of Economics, Law and Government, University of Economics HCMC (UEH), Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam ' College of Economics, Law and Government, University of Economics HCMC (UEH), Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam ' College of Economics, Law and Government, University of Economics HCMC (UEH), Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam ' College of Economics, Law and Government, University of Economics HCMC (UEH), Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Abstract: The movements in Vietnam that support LGBTQ+ generally and transgender individuals specifically have had a protracted developmental process. In addition to the challenges of discrimination and prejudice, transgender individuals in Vietnam also have to confront a larger issue, which is the lack of legal protection. They are currently facing many difficulties, as there are no specialised legal documents regulating specific procedures for them to live with their new gender. This article aims to analyse the current legal and social challenges faced by transgender people in Vietnam. Specifically, the article explores the current situation of transgender people and relevant legal provisions in the Vietnamese legal system that affects their rights. Accordingly, the article also comments on and critiques the latest draft law on sex reassignment to find out the progress and limitations of the draft. Thereby, the article analyses and shares opinions on some current controversies about transgenders.

Keywords: change gender; draft law; gender recognition; health protection; human rights; LGBTQ+; transgender people; transgenders's restroom; Vietnamese laws; 2015 Civil Code; Vietnam.

DOI: 10.1504/IJHRCS.2026.152884

International Journal of Human Rights and Constitutional Studies, 2026 Vol.13 No.2, pp.131 - 146

Received: 16 Apr 2024
Accepted: 16 Jun 2024
Published online: 14 Apr 2026 *

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