LEGAL FRAMEWORK FOR SUPPORTING WORKERS' ORGANIZATIONS IN VIETNAM: CHALLENGES OF IMPLEMENTATION IN THE CONTEXT OF INTERNATIONAL LABOR COMMITMENTS

Abstract This article examines the legal framework governing the support of workers’ organizations in Vietnam in light of international labor standards, particularly the ILO Conventions and commitments under free trade agreements such as the EVFTA and CPTPP. While the 2019 Labor Code introduced significant reforms-recognizing workers’ rights to establish their own representative bodies and receive technical assistance-practical implementation remains constrained by legal ambiguity and institutional fragmentation. Through a doctrinal and comparative legal analysis, supported by empirical survey data, the article highlights the gaps between Vietnamese law and international standards, especially regarding freedom of association and the right to access independent support. It concludes with recommendations for legal clarification, institutional strengthening, and policy reform to promote meaningful support for workers’ organizations and ensure compliance with Vietnam’s global labor obligations.