HCMC – The Vietnam Association for Victims of Agent Orange/Dioxin (VAVA) has launched a new fundraising campaign ahead of the 65th anniversary of the Agent Orange disaster in Vietnam, with organizers stepping up the use of digital platforms to support long-term livelihoods for victims.
The year 2026 marks 65 years since the start of Agent Orange exposure in Vietnam on August 10, 1961.
Speaking at a press briefing in Hanoi on May 15, Lieutenant General Nguyen Huu Chinh, VAVA’s chairman, said this year’s theme is “65 Years – From Disaster to a Journey of Joint Efforts to Alleviate the Pain of Agent Orange.”
The association’s strategy for 2026-2031 will focus not only on short-term financial aid but also on strengthening international cooperation, improving fundraising methods and developing more sustainable livelihood models for affected families.
According to the association, more than VND9.3 billion was mobilized for the fund in 2025, including over VND1.74 billion raised through digital charity platforms and a designated bank account bearing the number “1961,” accounting for nearly 20% of total contributions. More than VND10.3 billion was disbursed during the year to build houses, support livelihoods, provide wheelchairs and assist victims affected by natural disasters.
At the launch ceremony for the 2026 campaign, organizations and donors pledged more than VND1 billion in additional support. As part of its outreach strategy, the association said it would partner with digital platforms and organizations including TikTok Vietnam, the Vietnam Digital Communications Association and Military Bank (MB) to organize an online charity run called “Compassionate Steps” through the Topplay application to attract younger donors.
Organizers also announced plans to hold an Agent Orange exhibition titled “Journey for Justice” in Danang City starting July 22.
The exhibition will feature more than 400 documents and artifacts aimed at raising international awareness of the long-term environmental and humanitarian consequences of Agent Orange and supporting ongoing legal and remediation efforts.
