Vietnam's government is implementing new initiatives aimed at improving citizen services, particularly focusing on identification card issuance and enhancing social security for workers. These programs reflect the government’s commitment to facilitate the identification process for citizens and support individuals who may struggle to retire comfortably.
On February 3, 2023, as the Tet holiday approached, the police department of Soc Trang province made significant adjustments to their service hours to accommodate the influx of citizens returning home. Authorities quickly adapted to the growing number of requests for identification cards and electronic identification accounts. According to Lieutenant Colonel Tran Thi Thien My, head of the department, "The agency will continue to mobilize maximum forces and resources to receive citizens' documents as quickly and accurately as possible." On the first working day after Tet, reports showed over 200 citizens seeking to process identification paperwork shortly after the office opened.
Mr. Hong Hai, who visited for identification processing, shared his positive experience: "When I came to process my ID, even though many people were present, the officers here were very attentive, guiding the procedures quickly." Similarly, another resident, Ms. Nguyen Thi Tuyet, appreciated the ease of the process, stating, "We received thorough guidance from the officials, so it didn't take much time." It’s evident the teamwork and thorough preparation by the police have resulted in high levels of citizen satisfaction during this busy period.
Looking forward to July 1, 2024, the Vietnamese government will also roll out new provisions under the Social Insurance Law. These provisions target workers who have insufficient contributions to qualify for pensions but are not yet eligible for retirement benefits. Specifically, individuals who have retired but lack the requisite time contributing to social insurance will have access to monthly stipends. To qualify, applicants must require assistance, must not have withdrawn their deposits from social insurance, and must not have any disqualifying gaps during their contributions.
Under these new regulations, those who comply can expect their monthly assistance to at least match the minimum pension allowance for seniors. If individuals with higher contributions apply, they could receive greater support until they reach retirement age. The government aims to ease the burden on those who find themselves without the financial means, reflecting a compassionate response to the challenges faced by workers.
To begin the application process for monthly support, individuals will be required to provide their social insurance books and fill out application forms. A quick turnaround is promised, as local social insurance agencies vow to resolve requests within five days of receiving completed documentation. If any applications are denied, agencies must issue written explanations specifying the reasons. This streamlined process is part of the government's effort to maintain transparency and efficiency within the social service framework.
Both initiatives—the remarkable work of Soc Trang’s police department and the upcoming changes to social welfare programs—underscore the Vietnamese government's dedication to enhancing citizen engagement and support. Rapid responses to public needs exemplify the direction officials wish to take, which could serve as templates for other provinces and departments seeking to improve their services.
The introduction of welfare assistance for those without adequate pensions and the government’s efforts during the festive Tet period are both commendable steps forward. With anticipated future enhancements, the Vietnamese government demonstrates its commitment to securing the well-being of its citizens.