Conservation efforts have been proven to be significantly effective, as evident by the rise in the population of some primates in Vietnam, even though at an unfortunately slow pace. There’s still undeniably, a room for improvements and more has to be done if we are serious in conserving the existence of these primates.

1) Every individual needs to acknowledge that they have a part to play. Conservation efforts are flawed if carried out by only a few parties; the government and only a handful of community patrol. Wildlife deprivation affects everyone and everyone has to make a conscious effort to change the situation, in this case, the survival of endangered primates. Laws and punishments might influence our actions, but only us can dictate our own choices.

2) More widespread of knowledge through roadshows and education. Many irresponsible and impulsive activities such as illegal logging and poaching are driven by ignorance and lack of knowledge. Most of the time, humans are not driven by intrinsically “evil” motives. For instance, illegal loggers do not cut off trees with the intention of driving primates into extinction. They are just not exposed to the information about the harmful effects their actions have on these primates. Hence, there is a desperate need to educate citizens about the detrimental effects of such actions, and the seriousness of losing species altogether.

3) Stricter laws and consistent punishments. If the government are serious about wanting laws to work, they would have be monitor situations very closely and impose consistent laws. The higher authority needs to ensure that stringent monitoring on both parties; the supposed monitors (to deter bribes), and the alleged offenders.

4) The need for community cooperation and consensus. I believe that this is the 2nd strongest point, after individual responsibility. There is only so much laws can do. They can only direct people towards the ideal direction but what matters more is the adherence. It is psychologically proven that humans tend to commit more extreme acts in social groups. This would mean a cause would be more effective if committed in a group.

5) More stringent evaluation needs to be carried out before authorising rescue centres. Also since the potential critic is that rescue centres might be dubious and abusing the trust that government and public have on them, transparency is needed. Rescue centres need to ensure that they house primates and other species in relatively humane conditions so as to not inflict psychological stress on these animals. Rescue centres and staff need to take dignity in their work and ensure that they have the right motivation, which is to help the primates and not for monetary gains.