Norway’s ambassador to Vietnam, Hilde Solbakken, has highlighted women’s leadership as a key theme in Norway–Vietnam cooperation. In a Vietnam News article marking 54 years of diplomatic ties, she focused on gender equality and SDG 5. The article also marked the UN’s 16 days of activism against gender-based violence starting on 25 November.
Hilde Solbakken described gender equality as a cornerstone of Norway’s domestic and foreign policy. Nearly 45 per cent of members of the Norwegian Parliament are women after decades of reforms. She linked this progress to education, childcare support, parental leave and equal pay measures.
The ambassador said women’s leadership strengthens democracy, public trust and more inclusive decision-making. She highlighted Norway’s gender quotas for corporate boards and expanding rules for large private firms. OECD figures show closing gender gaps in work could significantly boost economic growth in coming decades.
Solbakken also pointed to new frontiers where equality matters, including cybersecurity and digital transformation. After the recent Hanoi Convention against Cybercrime, she urged more women into STEM and cyberspace governance roles.
The ambassador noted Vietnam’s own prominent women leaders, including its first female Deputy Prime Minister. She stressed that equal participation by women and men is vital for stronger, more resilient societies in both countries.
