In order to create a social dimension to economic development, competent and responsible trade unions that represent the genuine interests of their members are needed. The Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung is part of the German democratic labor movement and promotes its values and interests abroad. For this reason the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung is especially committed to a collaborative working relationship with trade unions worldwide.
The Vietnam General Confederation of Labour (VGCL) and its sectoral industrial unions are therefore key partners of the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung in Vietnam. Vietnamese trade unions are currently facing a significant challenge to redefine their roles within a socialist market-oriented economy within the context of the rapid internal economic integration process. The FES supports the VGCL in various ways to effectively manage these challenges.