Vietnam

A rapidly changing country with a growing role for young people

Vietnam has undergone rapid economic, social, and technological transformation, creating new opportunities for its increasingly urban and digitalised youth. At the same time, young people navigate these changes within a one-party political system that places limits on political participation, public expression, and civic space, shaping how they engage with their country’s future.

Challenges

Navigating rapid urban, economic and environmental change

Young people in Vietnam face a complex transition into adulthood. Education has expanded significantly, but the skills needed for work are evolving quickly as technology and artificial intelligence (AI) transform the economy, particularly entry-level jobs. Mental health is an increasing concern, while climate change is already affecting communities across the country. This is why creating meaningful opportunities for young people to participate in decisions affecting their communities remains important.

Cities

Connecting youth participation with urban change

Our work in Vietnam has brought together young people, civil society, public institutions and international partners around health, safer cities, climate action and urban development. Increasingly, these initiatives are connecting across organisations and sectors, creating opportunities to share learning, strengthen youth participation and embed successful approaches in local structures.

Youth participation in health, safer cities, and urban development.

Approach

Consolidating what works

As Fondation Botnar concentrates its future work in fewer countries, we will conclude our engagement in Vietnam by the end of 2029. During this transition, our priority is to consolidate existing work, strengthen collaboration between partners and support approaches that can continue beyond our funding. Especially in Da Nang, this includes bringing existing initiatives together and strengthening local ownership for the longer term.