Urgent Commitment Needed in Quang Tri
Quang Tri province is among the regions of Vietnam most severely affected by the enduring consequences of the Vietnam War. Green Cross Switzerland (GCCH) is deeply committed to highlighting these long-term effects. To date, efforts to effectively mitigate these impacts have been insufficient. This is precisely why GCCH has been active in Vietnam since 1998.
However, there have even been setbacks. The new US administration has halted the crucial decontamination of areas particularly affected by Agent Orange and unexploded ordnance. This decision contradicts the USA’s historical responsibility. It is important to note that, thus far, the USA has not provided conventional development aid for those affected by Agent Orange but has contributed to addressing the damage caused.
During the 1960s and early 1970s, the US Air Force conducted extensive bombing campaigns in Vietnam. An estimated two million of the bombs dropped during that period remain buried in the ground, posing a constant threat to the lives and physical well-being of the population. Since the war ended in 1975, the number of victims is estimated to have reached 100,000.
Furthermore, the chemical weapon Agent Orange was deployed at the time, leading to countless children being born with severe physical and mental disabilities across generations.
Quang Tri province is one of the areas most affected by these long-term consequences. The statistics are striking: while the province is home to less than 1% of Vietnam’s population and covers just over 1% of the country’s total area, its residents account for approximately 10% of the victims of unexploded ordnance nationwide.
For GCCH, involvement in Quang Tri was an obvious choice. Since last year, we have been collaborating with the organisation ACDC, which provides essential support to people with disabilities in the province. The organisation carries out vital work in social and psychological support, rehabilitation, orthopaedic assistance and accessible living solutions (read more here).
For us, one thing is clear: it is now more crucial than ever to intensify efforts to support those affected by Agent Orange and other enduring consequences of the Vietnam War.
Further information: