Vietnam - September 17, 2025 With fewer than 200 critically endangered wild elephants remaining in fragmented forests, urgent action is underway to prevent extinction and reduce human–elephant conflict. Humane World for Animals, formerly Humane Society International, has partnered with VNFOREST, under the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, to implement science-based, humane, elephant-centered interventions across Vietnam. Dr. Doan Hoai Nam, Deputy Director General of VNFOREST, said: "The protection of Vietnam’s last wild elephants is a national priority and a shared responsibility. Through this partnership with Humane World for Animals, we are strengthening science-based approaches and empowering local authorities to safeguard elephants and their habitats for future generations." Nguyen Thi Hoang, Vice Chairwoman of Dong Nai Provincial People’s Committee, emphasized that success requires collective effort, from opposing wildlife hunting to promoting coexistence. She said: "We conserve elephants with all our hearts," highlighting collaboration with VNFOREST, Humane World for Animals, and national and international experts to protect elephants while supporting sustainable livelihoods. Humane World for Animals supports training for law enforcement, forest rangers, and researchers to monitor human–elephant conflict and manage habitats. They also helped launch Vietnam’s first elephant conservation research and practice network to strengthen inter-agency coordination. Elephant Conservation Week began on September 19 in Dong Nai, featuring camera-trap photos and videos of wild elephants, with outreach activities across five priority provinces—Dong Nai, Dak Lak, Da Nang, Ha Tinh, and Nghe An—supporting the national VECAP 2022 plan. Phuong Tham, country director of Humane World for Animals Vietnam, said: “Elephants are an irreplaceable part of Vietnam’s natural and cultural heritage. Our collaboration ensures protection is effective, humane, and inclusive, placing elephants and communities at the center of the action.”