UN Women launches song writing contest to promote gender equality in Viet Nam

[Press release]

Ha Noi, Viet Nam — In a pioneering initiative, UN Women Viet Nam has joined forces with the Center for Natural Resources and Environment Communication at the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment to introduce a “Song Writing Contest” aimed at championing gender equality in Viet Nam. The competition aims to amplify the message of equality, respect, and the realization of dreams, regardless of gender.

The competition is designed to inspire and engage all Vietnamese citizens, both within the country and abroad, as well as foreigners residing, working, studying, and contributing to Viet Nam's cultural landscape. Participants are encouraged to compose songs that envision a sustainable and equitable future, where every individual, regardless of their gender, is treated with respect and empowered to pursue their aspirations without the constraints of stereotypes or barriers.

Speaking at the competition's grand opening, Ms. Caroline Nyamayemombe, Head of UN Women Viet Nam a.i, emphasized the unique power of music to transcend linguistic and cultural boundaries, saying, "Music possesses the remarkable ability to bridge gaps and connect our hearts in ways that ordinary language cannot. This competition serves as a platform for artists, musicians, and storytellers to leverage their creativity and talent in the pursuit of a more inclusive and just society.

The prizes for the competition include:

• First Prize (in-kind): 6,000,000 VND
• Two Second Prizes (in-kind): 4,000,000 VND each
• Two Third Prizes (in-kind): 3,000,000 VND each

To be eligible for the competition, entries must be original compositions that have not been previously submitted to other creative contests and must be free of any copyright or authorship disputes. The Organizing Committee will accept entries from October 5, 2023, until 5:00 p.m. on November 16, 2023.

The Song Writing Contest coincides with the celebration of Viet Nam’s Women's Day on October 20 and aligns with the global campaign 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, observed from November 25 to December 10.