Despite ongoing turbulence in the labor market, several emerging sectors hold promise for the future. Among the most notable are the green workforce and the digital workforce. These sectors are actively seeking new talent capable of adapting to environmental and technological shifts.
In Vietnam, marginalized groups - particularly persons with disabilities remain an underutilized segment of the workforce due to structural and social barriers. However, overlooking these groups means forgoing a vast reserve of labor potential.
Marginalized Populations As A Viable Workforce
According to Vietnam’s General Statistics Office, individuals with disabilities aged 16 and above accounted for 7.31% of the population in 2023, equivalent to over 7.3 million people. Yet, only about 1.75 million of them are currently employed. Marginalized individuals, especially those with disabilities are often perceived as economically dependent and unable to work. However, when given the opportunity, they frequently demonstrate strong motivation and a willingness to contribute.
Providing employment to marginalized individuals is not only a humane strategy but also generates ripple effects across society. By integrating them into emerging labor markets such as the digital and green economies, companies do more than provide jobs. They offer these individuals access to technology, a pathway to the future and the chance to overcome stigma, thereby recognizing their value and potential within society.
When appropriately integrated, marginalized employees contribute to more inclusive, multicultural work environments. This enhances the social impact of companies and fosters employee engagement while reducing turnover.
According to a McKinsey study, diverse teams tend to be more creative and productive. In the long term, this diversity translates into progressive growth, sustainable financial returns, and increased attractiveness to investors.
Persistent Challenges Faced By Marginalized Labor Groups
As previously noted, marginalized individuals often start from a position of disadvantage, limiting their access to the same goals and achievements as the broader population. One key factor is limited access to education. Admissions quotas for students with disabilities in mainstream institutions remain insufficiently prioritized or promoted.
In Vietnam, the number of individuals with disabilities is higher in rural areas—regions that lag in both technological infrastructure and education. Low-income groups often lack the knowledge and financial resources to access appropriate training environments. These limitations create substantial structural barriers, impeding marginalized individuals from accessing jobs that require qualifications or professional certifications.
A labor force survey by the General Statistics Office revealed that employment rates among people with mobility and hearing impairments aged 18–40 are still relatively low compared to those over 40. Conversely, individuals with visual, cognitive, and communication disabilities within the same age group exhibit higher employment rates. These findings suggest that neither disability type nor age solely determines employability. Rather, it is shaped by societal conditions and access to employment opportunities.
Strategies To Leverage The Potential Of Marginalized Workers
Reconstruct Recruitment Strategies
To recruit marginalized workers, employers must first identify effective ways to reach them. Instead of relying solely on traditional recruitment channels, companies should consider partnering with local organizations such as social welfare centers, temples, churches, or relevant Facebook communities. Additionally, prioritizing remote work positions can increase access for individuals living in suburban or rural areas who face mobility challenges.
Another approach is skill-based hiring, which evaluates candidates based on relevant competencies rather than educational credentials.
This method requires a mindset shift among recruiters but results in a more efficient and objective recruitment process. It also offers hope to skilled candidates who may lack formal qualifications, encouraging them to apply for jobs more confidently.
Changing Training Programs
Effective utilization of marginalized labor hinges on tailored professional training. As the green and digital labor markets expand, companies must implement training programs that introduce concepts such as sustainability frameworks and artificial intelligence, alongside essential job-specific tools and competencies.
Investing in education for younger generations within marginalized communities is also key to long-term sustainability. Inclusive education programs that integrate environmental and climate-related topics can provide a strong foundation for these children to join the future workforce.
Reforming Human Resource Management
A supportive work environment is essential for fostering long-term engagement. For individuals with disabilities, this includes accessible infrastructure and appropriate labor protections such as insurance coverage.
An example is Uniqlo’s inclusive employment initiative, which aims for every store to employ at least one person with a disability. These employees are paired with colleagues who provide daily support throughout work shifts.
On a cultural level, an inclusive organizational environment with strong internal communication and dedicated departments for supporting marginalized workers enables easier integration. Such inclusive policies foster a sense of belonging, ensuring that every employee, regardless of limitations, feels valued and supported.
The 2025 Vietnam ESG Investor Conference by Raise Partners and Vietnam Innovators Digest is a two-day event, gathering investors and funds, business leaders, Vietnamese and international governments, start-ups, experts, academia, and the media to spark meaningful collaboration and accelerate green and inclusive growth in Vietnam.
When: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM, 14-15th May 2025
Where: New World Saigon Hotel, 76 Le Lai Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Event details: find out more HERE
The 2025 Vietnam ESG Investor Conference is made possible with the support of: Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Leading Government Partner); Dynam Capital and Ecolean (Program Partner); New World Saigon Hotel (Venue Partner); HSBC Vietnam, S&P Global, DEEP C Industrial Zones, Betrimex, Home Credit (Engagement Partner); Vietcetera (Media Partner); AusCham Vietnam and Dutch Business Association Vietnam (Communications Partner); Green Transition (Technical Partner) and Be (Travel Partner).