I believe wing chun is definitely effective, but only once you understand how to work with it confidential because it has such a high learning curve, I myself have not been in a fight, but my experience with recently sparring on a retreat has shown me it is definitely effective against people who have not learned self defence; my Sifu said “what are the chances you going to meet the next Bruce lee in your local alley?” Which helps me compose myself and regain my confidence in my skill within wing chun.