In one of Africa's most conflict-affected regions, Vietnamese peacekeeping forces are continuing to leave a meaningful impact beyond their official duties. From repairing roads to supporting local infrastructure, their efforts in Abyei are helping make daily life safer and more accessible for local communities, while also contributing to United Nations peacekeeping operations in the area.
For many Vietnamese abroad, it also means passing residency examinations that come with considerable pressure and challenges. In Hungary, many Vietnamese prepare for these exams not through formal classes alone, but through everyday life lessons and the enduring support of their community, far from home.
Across Viet Nam, residents are joining together to keep their neighbourhoods clean through regular clean-up activities and responsible waste disposal. In Hà Nội, one residential area has been maintaining this community-driven practice for years, helping create a cleaner and more pleasant place to live.
At least 164 people have been killed and more than 970 injured, from the most powerful twin earthquakes to strike the country in 126 years, Rescue teams are continuing to search through the rubble to find survivors, though operations have been hindered by the risk of additional building collapses, power outages, and transportation disruptions.
Green economic development has become a mandatory standard, as Viet Nam makes strong international commitments to environmental protection and climate change adaptation. Đà Nẵng is mobilising major resources to protect the Cù Lao Chàm - Hội An Biosphere Reserve.
With nearly 97% of the population now covered by health insurance, it is clear that more and more Vietnamese citizens recognise the practical benefits of this policy
"Urban forests", or "peri-urban forests", are a familiar feature in Japan. Unlike primaeval forests, these woodlands are closely linked to urban green infrastructure and to the daily lives of residents. More importantly, they are now helping to create new forms of local economic activity - from urban forest economies to shared wood-based economies.