Abstract
This chapter focuses on queer and sexuality developments in post-Doi Moi (economic reform) Vietnam. It addresses the initial efforts to develop sexuality studies along a Western perspective in Vietnam, involving US groups such as the Social Science Research Council and Ford Foundation. The role of a pioneering local organisation, Institute for Social Development Studies, under the leadership of social scientist Khuat Thu Huong, is analysed. Its sexuality research studies focusing on delineating the lived experience of Vietnamese of various ethnicities led ultimately to the development of on-the-ground queer activism, which has now blossomed. The chapter analyses how local queer activists have managed to develop their activism within an authoritarian, one-party system. The challenges in meeting international human rights mandates as well as well-meaning advice from western organisations are addressed. The road ahead remains with many challenges and cannot be read as merely replicating queer activism in the West. Vietnam will continue to develop its own path forward.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
