Vietnam Launches U.S.-backed Short Film Contest against Illegal Wildlife Trade

Vietnam has launched a national short film contest to raise awareness about illegal wildlife trading in the country, which is deemed the biggest consumption market of rhino horn in the world. This is part of Operation Game Change’s WildFest, an event designed to raise public awareness and spark a reduction in demand for illegal-trafficked wildlife receiving support from the U.S. Embassy in Vietnam. A series of workshops targeting aspiring filmmakers were held in Hanoi, Danang, and Ho Chi Minh City on June 22, 24, and 26, encouraging and sensitizing filmmakers about issues related to the illegal wildlife trade and rhino horn consumption. The events are expected to provide essential information and insights to help them develop creative film concepts. At the workshops, filmmakers will learn more about key messages that help reach audiences through participatory discussions with wildlife and media experts. WildFest is part of Operation Game Change (OGC) – a joint alliance between the United States and Vietnam which aims to have broad appeal and influence public debate around illegal wildlife issues in Vietnam, especially to stop rhino horn trafficking. (vietnam.usembassy.gov June 22, Tuoi Tre – Youth July 1 p9)