Vietnam considers banning domestic violence and child abuse offenders from adoption

Vietnam's Ministry of Justice is presenting a draft of the amended Law on Adoption, which includes proposals to restrict adoption rights for individuals with histories of violence or abuse.

Phan Chi Hieu, Chairman of the Committee on Legal Affairs and Justice, suggested researching regulations that would prohibit individuals administratively sanctioned for domestic violence or child abuse from adopting children. The draft law also proposes banning those currently under criminal prosecution, those serving non-custodial reform, or those serving suspended prison sentences from adopting.

The amendments aim to institutionalize policies for strengthening child care, education, and protection, while ensuring that adoption is prioritized for abandoned or orphaned children to respect their right to remain with biological families whenever possible.