Gendered Division of Housework and Paid work among Ethnic Minorities in Vietnam

Abstract

This study explores the gendered division of labour in paid work and housework among ethnic minorities in Vietnam. The researchers collected primary information through 135 structured interviews, two focus-group discussions, and related secondary information. The study findings indicate that housework is the responsibility of women. Although
men share housework with women, their participation in cleaning, cooking, washing and childcare is low. Whereas men mainly work in agricultural related activities, women take care of the livestock. The study found that the biological characteristics of men and women and the nature of work determine the gendered division of labour.

Keywords: gender division of labour, gender inequality, housework, paid work, Vietnam

DOI: 10.32444/IJSW.2024.85.1.105-122