Parliamentary handbook launched to transform animal welfare in Vietnam

The Board of Deputy Affairs under the National Assembly's Standing Committee, in collaboration with SBCC Vietnam and the Soi Dog Foundation, compiled the handbook.

This is the first time the Board of Deputy Affairs has compiled reference materials on animal welfare. The involvement of legislators on this issue was vital, contributing to systemic changes in policy and social awareness regarding animal welfare.

Nguyen Tuan Anh, standing Vice Chairman of the Board of Deputy Affairs, emphasised, "The handbook serves as reference material providing National Assembly delegates and state agencies with legal knowledge about animal management while addressing existing shortcomings. From there, it puts forward several proposals to promote the improvement of policies and laws to align Vietnam's animal welfare legislation with international standards, as well as effective measures to monitor the implementation of policies and laws on animals."

The handbook provides detailed guidance on animal welfare practices, particularly protecting companion animals (dogs and cats) from abusive behaviour. Moreover, it analyses gaps in current policies, such as the need to strengthen regulations on animal protection, while proposing appropriate measures to transform social awareness to reduce the dog and cat meat trade.

"This handbook represents a crucial milestone in addressing dog and cat welfare in Vietnam," stated Rahul Sehgal, director of international advocacy at the Soi Dog Foundation International. "As an international partner, we look to Vietnam's National Assembly members to champion legislation to end the dog and cat meat trade. Their leadership role is vital in creating meaningful policy change that aligns with international standards and enhances Vietnam's global reputation. The Soi Dog Foundation stands ready to support Vietnam's legislators with expertise and resources as they work towards this important goal."

"This handbook represents a critical tool in our comprehensive behaviour change approach," said Duyen Bui, social and behaviour change director at SBCC Vietnam. "As specialists in social and behaviour change communication, we recognise that lasting transformation requires both policy reform and shifts in public perception. Our agency is committed to supporting the implementation of campaigns that will help Vietnamese society embrace these new standards of animal welfare and move away from traditional practices that no longer align with our nation's progressive values."

The handbook has been published on the official website of the Training Centre for Elected Representatives under the Standing Committee of the National Assembly.

By providing comprehensive insights and actionable recommendations to those in positions of influence, the handbook is positioned to create a lasting impact, from shaping new legislation and policies, to transforming public attitudes towards a ban on the dog and cat meat trade.

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