Workshop on Psychological Consequences in Victims of Chemical Poisoning

SeminarPsychological consequences for victims of chemical poisoning in the Vietnam War.Organized by the University of Social Sciences and Humanities on March 19, 2010, with the participation of many experts in psychology, sociology, medicine, history, etc. from Vietnam, the United States, France, and representatives of the Vietnam Association of Victims of Agent Orange/Dioxin.Thirty-three reports were presented. The workshop focused on clarifying the scientific and practical foundations, as well as the extent of damage and severe consequences on the psycho-physiological and psychosocial levels, that chemical warfare inflicted on both Vietnam and the warring countries. The reports presented not only addressed theoretical issues but also presented some results of practical investigations into the psychological, pathological, and sociological aspects of chemical warfare victims and their families. Notably, some reports were based on case studies of individuals, their families, and comrades – direct victims of chemical warfare. The workshop focused on two main issues: - The impact of chemical toxins/dioxin on the physical and psychological health of victims; - Policies of preferential treatment and psychosocial support from the State and the community for victims. The conference provides an opportunity for domestic and international researchers to gain a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of the losses and sacrifices that the Vietnamese people endured during the more than two decades of war. From this, each individual, from their respective positions and social perspectives, can work together to support, care for, and share the spiritual and material well-being of victims of chemical warfare, while also proposing immediate and long-term, comprehensive solutions to help these victims overcome the severe consequences they are currently facing.