Accor Fights Human Trafficking with Blue Dragon

Accor and Blue Dragon Team Up

Accor has announced the renewal of its partnership with the Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to eradicating human trafficking in Vietnam. The two organizations have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to enhance their collaboration in this important fight.

Following the successful participation of Accor colleagues in Vietnam in last year’s Blue Dragon Marathon Walk fundraising events, which raised VND VND 210 million (over USD 8,600) to rescue six women from human trafficking, 2,000 colleagues from Accor hotels and resorts participated again in this year’s fundraising efforts across Vietnam. These events raised VND one billion (nearly USD 40,000) to combat human trafficking, reunite victims with their families, and provide essential support for their reintegration. This support includes emergency shelter, nutrition, psychological counselling, travel expenses, and access to medical treatment and legal representation. Additionally, the funds will help students from remote areas participate in life skills training and workshops aimed at protecting themselves from human trafficking.

Under the MoU, Accor will donate excess and used equipment, such as furniture and technology, to the Blue Dragon’s centres and home improvement projects. Additionally, skills and job training will be offered to young adults, creating pathways to sustainable employment.

In addition to donations and training, Accor will offer expert advice on building maintenance, safety checks, and design layouts for new or renovated Blue Dragon facilities. Accor will also provide its hotel meeting rooms for Blue Dragon events, where officials and stakeholders involved in the fight against human trafficking will convene to encourage further action.

“Accor is proud to continue its partnership with Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation in the fight against human trafficking,” said Xavier Cappelut, Vice President of Operations, Premium, Midscale & Economy Division for Accor in Vietnam, the Philippines, and the Maldives. 

“Our renewed commitment to Blue Dragon reflects our dedication to giving back to society and making a tangible difference in the communities where we operate. The success of last year’s marathon walks, which raised significant funds to support vulnerable women and youth, has inspired us to further deepen our community involvement.”

Blue Dragon has had a significant impact in Vietnam, rescuing over 1,600 individuals from slavery. The organization has provided education to more than 6,400 children and offered shelter to over 1,800 youth. Additionally, Blue Dragon has helped nearly 500 young people access job opportunities, served 690,557 meals, and built 270 homes for families. They have also reunited 838 runaways with their families and assisted over 13,500 individuals in obtaining legal identity papers. These achievements reflect Blue Dragon's unwavering commitment to ending exploitation and improving lives in Vietnam.

Accor took part in this event to demonstrate its commitment to local communities. Recognizing that preserving and supporting these communities is essential, Accor's partnership with Blue Dragon highlights its dedication to community engagement and making a positive impact in the areas where it operates.