Adolescent sexual and reproductive health and rights policy for ethnic minority girls in Vietnam: a qualitative study with policy makers and service providers.

BACKGROUND Adolescent sexual and reproductive health and rights (ASRHR) policy has strengthened globally over the last three decades, but country-level barriers to implementation perpetuate health inequities for adolescent girls. In Vietnam, implementation of ASRHR policy remains challenged by persisting structural and socio-cultural issues and has yet to reduce the high prevalence of adolescent pregnancy in ethnic minority communities.

OBJECTIVE(S) To explore the perspectives of policy makers and service providers in Vietnam regarding the factors influencing the delivery of ASRHR policy for ethnic minority adolescent girls. The research examined professional opinions related to: (1) socio-cultural factors influencing the lives of adolescent girls in Vietnam; (2) current implementation of ASRHR policy for ethnic minority girls; and (3) strengthening ASRHR policy and service delivery for this population.

METHODS Eleven key informant interviews were conducted across government and civil society, using semi-structured interviews via an online platform. Critical qualitative inquiry guided a reflexive approach to thematic analysis.

RESULTS Three themes were constructed. First, conservative patriarchal values, parenting, and particular vulnerabilities of ethnic minority girls underpin health inequities. Second, universal responses to ASRHR policy weaken delivery of services and education in ethnic minority communities and are not responsive to emerging complexities. Third, strengthening ASRHR policy in Vietnam includes provincial level enhancements and better use of civil society resources.

CONCLUSION Key informants strongly supported ASRHR policy in Vietnam and called for improved policy level action to contextualize complexities and better use of available local resources. The recommendations could contribute to strengthening ASRHR policy in Vietnam.