CHANGE WITHIN REACH

Rise builds movements and communities, aiming for a society that is fairer and more equitable.
We bring change within reach, one issue at a time, in each community.

SMF 2025 Regional Roundtable Unites Southeast Asian Youth Activists in Bangkok

On 3/11, Vietnam Rise held the SMF 2025 Regional Roundtable in Bangkok. We welcomed over 30 lawyers, funders, NGOs/CSOs and youth movement leaders from Southeast Asia. Participants included two Nepalese youth activists who shared their experiences in the recent Gen Z movement.

About Vietnam Rise: Our Mission, Our Moment

Vietnam Rise was founded and is led by three female activists drawing from decades-long experience with movement building in Vietnam and human rights work around the world. In our past and current work, we have had rich collaboration and deep partnership with many civil society, human rights defenders, and advocacy organizations. However, we have also experienced government-sponsored smear campaigns that distort the nature of our work and attempts at silencing our activism.

How civil society groups and activists are planning to reclaim civic space in Vietnam

The civic space restrictions in Vietnam have made it more difficult for human rights groups and activists to fulfill their work without being targeted by authorities. Despite the risks, several initiatives and campaigns aim to empower more people to exercise their rights and promote positive change in their communities. Among those actively advocating for reforms are members of the Vietnamese diaspora who are concerned about their homeland and are eager to study their heritage.

SMF 2025 “Reimagining Youth Activism: How Youth Can Create Self-empowered Movements In Southeast Asia”

This year’s theme “Reimagining Youth Activism: How Youth Can Create Self-empowered Movements In Southeast Asia”, SMF 2025 aims to chart a regionally focused path forward that maximizes youth autonomy and strengthens youths’ role as key drivers of social change. The event will explore strategies for optimizing resources, sustaining morale, and safeguarding both team members and target communities from political scrutiny.

Why Rise?

The civic space in Vietnam continues to deteriorate, particularly for those working to promote human rights and democracy. Environmental degradation and climate change is a multi-generational challenge. Rise believes that social movements are a powerful vehicle to create positive and lasting social and democratic change in Vietnam.

Solidarity in community

When individuals recognize their struggles are not solitary, they gain confidence to engage in community action. Rise provides training programs aimed at identifying and building capacity for local communities and movements.

changing mindset

Movements must be able to ignite social conscience, cultivate public indignation, and push public opinion to confront worsening social conditions. Rise works to change what no longer fits within ourselves, our families, and our communities.

taking creative action

The more innovative and accessible the actions, the greater community participation and public attention they garner. Creativity is essential both in offline activism and in utilizing online tools effectively.

Our Programs

Movement Building Training

Drawing from social movements from around the world and in Vietnam, Rise’s training curriculum combines in-person gatherings and virtual experiences to share best practices, strategies, and action to build people power.

Movement Incubation

Investing in people and initiatives to catalyze social change is Rise's top priority. We support movements by providing seed grants and coaching at all stages, from brainstorming to project implementation.

network building

Movements in Vietnam face complex challenges that no single entity can solve alone. Rise, in partnership with allied organizations, works directly with affected communities. Rise serves as a nexus to connect communities and forge solidarity. Learn more about our annual event Social Movement Festival.