05/05/2026
The current regulatory and operational environment in Vietnam presents increasing constraints on the effective delivery of humanitarian programs by foreign non-governmental organizations (FNGOs).
Over successive operational cycles, the system has become progressively more restrictive. Within a standard three-year operating license period, approximately one year is effectively lost due to prolonged federal and local approval processes required for humanitarian project implementation. This significantly reduces the time available for program ex*****on and undermines overall impact.
Additional challenges have recently emerged within the banking sector. A substantial donation from an international supporter was transferred to the Rima Foundation’s account in Vietnam, with a clearly stated purpose: “Donation to support projects.” Despite this, the receiving bank has declined to release the funds, citing insufficient detail regarding the specific project allocation. This requirement appears disproportionate, particularly given that the Foundation is formally authorized to operate only within two defined program areas: (1) scholarship initiatives and (2) home-building projects. Unless any supporter wish to contribute to a specific program or project, the expectation that donors pre-designate funds to a specific project, rather than supporting approved program areas broadly, introduces unnecessary administrative friction and delays in fund utilization.
Compounding these issues is the implementation of digital submission systems for regulatory approvals without adequate supporting infrastructure. In practice, this has necessitated travel to other provinces where such systems are operational, creating additional logistical and financial burdens. Rather than streamlining processes, this partial digitization has introduced further inefficiencies.
Taken together, these factors reflect a systemic environment that is increasingly difficult to navigate and raises legitimate concerns regarding the sustainability and viability of continuing humanitarian operations under current conditions.
