In the central highlands, the government restricts the Protestant religious affairs of the ethnic Montagnards and has arrested clergy and worshippers. Authorities reportedly restrict exit permits for Muslims seeking to make their religious pilgrimages to Mecca. All unions must belong to the state-controlled Vietnam General Confederation of Labor, and all union leaders are VCP members. The 1994 Labor Code recognizes only a limited right to strike and allows the prime minister or the court to terminate strikes for national good. Local authorities impose internal travel, education, and employment restrictions on ethnic minorities.
Women face social and employment discrimination.
Prostitution of women and children and international trafficking for that purpose were reportedly increasing.