A social security plan provides old age, disability and surivivorship benefits, as well as worker's injury and medical insurance. Coverage is compulsory for public employees and employees of companies with more than 10 workers. Pensions are funded by 5% of employee wages, 15% of employer payroll, and government contributions. Maternity benefits are payable at 100% of wages for 120 days.
Women have full legal rights under law, but are subject to various forms of social discrimination. Few women are found in senior management or high level government positions, but business and the public sector nevertheless employ many women, and they are an important part of the economy. Women also generally receive lower wages than their male counterparts. Domestic violence against women is common.
The human rights record is poor, and there are continuing reports of arbitrary detention and the mistreatment of detainees during interrogation. However, restrictions on free speech and religion have been lessened slightly in recent years, as have restrictions on travel. Human rights organizations are not permitted to operate in Vietnam.
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