[Report] Unpaid Care Work: Current Realities and Valuation

Daily household tasks such as cooking, washing dishes, grocery shopping, doing laundry, cleaning, and caring for young children, older people, or those who are ill are often referred to as “housework” or “domestic chores”. These tasks are widely perceived as having no economic value and are routinely considered the responsibility of women. Researchers refer to this as unpaid care work.

Growing evidence from both Vietnam and abroad demonstrates that unpaid care work plays a vital role and creates substantial value, not only for families but for society as a whole. Numerous studies have quantified the economic contributions of unpaid care work. Yet in reality, this value remains unrecognized within households and is not included in national GDP calculations. These unpaid tasks continue to disproportionately burden women, limiting their time, opportunities, and access to paid work.

We believe it is essential to advance scientific research that further highlights and advocates for the recognition of unpaid care work’s value. In the current context, quantifying unpaid care work is critical. It provides robust theoretical and practical evidence to strengthen public understanding of the true worth of domestic work, and to acknowledge the significant contributions women make to sustaining family well-being and supporting inclusive, sustainable development.