Article 4 of the Vietnamese Law on Children, issued in 2016, emphasizes that “Protecting children means taking appropriate measures to ensure that children live safely and healthily.” However, in recent times, there have been unfortunate incidents and concerns raised about the safety of children in apartment buildings, with some recreational spaces also being encroached upon.
Discussing this issue, Dr. Nguyen Van Dinh, Vice President of the Vietnam Real Estate Association, stated that firstly, in terms of safety, there is a lack of detailed regulations and guidelines to specifically address children as a vulnerable group. Secondly, there is a lack of separate considerations for children in the inspection and approval processes of design plans and existing constructions.
He particularly emphasized the importance of developers’ and investors’ awareness during the apartment project development process. Many investors and developers prioritize profits and personal gains over creating quality living environments for all residents, including children.
“Some investors even go as far as cutting corners and encroaching on areas meant for community amenities to serve their personal interests,” Dr. Dinh stressed.
The expert suggested that investors and developers must be equipped with knowledge related to child safety and well-being. Only then can they design and develop projects that ensure the safety and happiness of children living in apartment buildings.
Dr. Nguyen Van Dinh, Vice President of the Vietnam Real Estate Association, and Chairman of the Vietnam Real Estate Brokers Association.
Dr. Dinh provided an example from Thailand and Malaysia, where social housing projects with 8,000 apartments still maintained well-integrated infrastructure and amenities, including recreational and sports facilities. The developers in these countries demonstrated a clear consideration for vulnerable groups, such as people with disabilities and children, in their designs.
“In contrast, we still have some way to go in Vietnam. Even in apartment designs, there is a lack of consideration for children. Therefore, we need to identify criteria within residential buildings and areas to ensure children’s safety, including accessible transportation systems, elevators, and fire safety measures in case of emergencies,” Dr. Dinh evaluated.
He also commended reputable developers who have delivered quality projects with strict compliance to legal regulations, such as Vinhomes and Ecopark in Hanoi. These projects offer diverse infrastructure and amenities to cater to the needs of residents, especially children, with schools and playgrounds.
“It is evident that when developers have a conscious and caring mindset towards this vulnerable group, their projects will meet stringent standards, and residents can confidently choose to live there,” Dr. Dinh added.
To conclude, Dr. Dinh proposed that awards for projects should also consider the developers’ awareness as a criterion. This would encourage the creation of quality and safe projects, especially for vulnerable groups like children.
