Ethnic groups receive Danish aid
Denmark will contribute US$350,000 to a UNICEF-supported project for the promotion of rights of Vietnamese ethnic minority women and children. An agreement to
this effect was signed in Hanoi on Friday by the Danish Embassy in Hanoi and the UNICEF
Vietnam Office. The project with the total fund of US$770,000 will be carried out from
2001 to 2003 in five poor provinces of Ha Giang, Lai Chau, Lao Cai, Kontum and Soc Trang.
A wide range of activities will be co-ordinated by UNICEF and implemented by the National Committee for Ethnic Minorities and Mountainous Development and other relevant government
agencies.
Danish Ambassador Ove Ullerup said the Danish funds will be used in the project areas to strengthen legal measures to protect the rights of ethnic minorities and
promote their participation in their own development. He said, "Vietnam has
achieved tremendous results in poverty alleviation over the past 10 or 15 years.
Unfortunately the ethnic minorities have not been able to follow to the same extent of
this positive approach and development. Ethnic minorities account for 14 percent of
Vietnam’s population. But if you look at the poor of Vietnam, you will find that about 29 percent are coming from the ethnic minorities and particularly the children and
women who are suffering most this situation. That is why we are putting high priority in
trying to give new opportunities to ethnic minorities."
The project will focus on creating positive environment and
opportunities for the fulfilment of the rights of ethnic minorities, especially those
relating to children and women.
In recent years, the Danish government has funded a number of projects supporting
disadvantaged and street children. The Danish - funded Smile Operation has helped more
than 5,000 children with cleft palates and harelips.
Voice Of Vietnam Radio - January 5, 2001.
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