Labour Migrants’ HIV Knowledge and Behaviour Study

Timeframe: October 2005 – September 2006

Location: Ha Noi and Ho Chi Minh City

Labour migrants overseas are particularly vulnerable to HIV. Countries with a long history of labour migration are now recognizing that an increasing proportion of migrants are returning home with HIV. The lack of protection against HIV is largely due to poor understanding and behaviour prior to overseas travel. Labour migration from Viet Nam is increasing and there are a number of training centres and locations established to train migrant workers.

The Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs (MOLISA) has developed a 2004-2010 plan to provide job training for up to 70 percent of the migrant workforce and expects the number of migrant workers to double during that time. The growing number of labour migrants travelling overseas, their vulnerability to HIV and the risk of HIV transmission when returning, indicates considerable need to reach migrant workers prior to their departure.

The project conducted qualitative and quantitative research with migrant workers in training centres in Viet Nam and at IOM offices in Ha Noi and Ho Chi Minh City, to assess migrant knowledge and behaviour related to HIV transmission, and developed information and educational materials.