Globalisation, gender and work in the context of economic transition: the case of Viet Nam

This paper is concerned with the gender and poverty implications of globalisation in the context of the transition to a market economy in Viet Nam. As elsewhere, the export oriented garment industry in Viet Nam is a major source of employment for women. Women are also actively engaged in the domestic market in the state and private sectors and in the informal economy. The paper uses survey data to compare the characteristics, conditions and preferences of women working for global and local markets in order to ascertain who they are, how they might differ and what their jobs mean to them.