Vietnam sets penalties of up to $1,200 for coerced spousal sex

The government has officially issued Decree 282/2025/ND-CP, which sets forth administrative penalties in the areas of security, order, social safety, prevention of social evils, and domestic violence prevention.

The decree takes effect on December 15, 2025.

Under the new rules, forcing a spouse to have sex against their will can result in a fine of up to VND30 million.

Article 41 stipulates fines of VND10-20 million ($380-$760) for coercing a family member to listen to, view, or read pornographic content, and monetary penalties of VND20-30 million ($760-1,200) for forcing a family member to perform sexual acts or coercing a husband or wife into unwanted sexual intercourse when criminal charges are not pursued.

In addition to monetary penalties, offenders may be required to issue a public apology if the victim requests it, either in person, at the workplace, at another location, or through the mass media.

Under the current Decree 144/2021, sexual violence is not defined clearly, appearing only in a provision that covers coercing family members into performing sexual acts, using stimulants, or engaging in sexually abusive behavior.