In a significant move to enhance governance and streamline administrative processes, the Vietnamese government has initiated a series of reforms aimed at merging and rearranging administrative units across various provinces. This initiative is not merely a bureaucratic exercise but a strategic effort to foster national unity, respect local traditions, and ensure that the voices of the people are heard.
According to the Resolution 35/2023/UBTVQH15, dated July 12, 2023, the government emphasizes the importance of ensuring national unity while considering historical, cultural, and traditional factors when naming new administrative units. The resolution also encourages the use of existing names during the merger of administrative units of the same level, a move aimed at maintaining stability and continuity in place names.
In the context of this initiative, the establishment of Tra Lan town in Con Cuong district is set to take effect from December 1, 2024. This new town will emerge from the merger of parts of Chi Khe commune and the entire area and population of Bong Khe commune, along with the existing Con Cuong town. Such changes are expected to create a more effective administrative structure that is closer to the people.
Officials have noted that when merging communes, it is essential to choose names that are not only familiar but also carry historical significance. For instance, the merging of three communes in Nam Dan, Nghe An—Nam Trung, Nam Cuong, and Nam Phuc—presents an opportunity to restore the old name "Trung Can" instead of adopting a new name like "Trung Phuc Cuong." This approach reflects a broader goal of honoring local history while facilitating administrative efficiency.
Moreover, the article highlights the importance of preserving names that resonate with community identity. In Dien Chau, historical names such as La Hoang and Huong Ai are being considered for retention in newly formed administrative units. Similarly, in Thanh Chuong, the name Dai Dong, derived from an old total, is being retained after merging three communes.
However, a more modern approach to naming has emerged, where some localities propose using numerical designations for new administrative units, such as Con Cuong 1 or Con Cuong 2. While this method simplifies management and organization, it risks erasing the cultural and historical significance of traditional names. Critics argue that such numerical names do not reflect the unique characteristics of each area, potentially diminishing community identity.
To strike a balance, the author suggests a hybrid naming approach, for example, using "Phuong Tra Lan (Khu vuc 1)" to retain cultural significance while accommodating administrative needs. This method could help preserve the historical context while simplifying governance.
As these administrative changes unfold, the focus remains on ensuring that the restructuring does not disrupt ongoing services or daily life for citizens. In Nam Tu Liem district, for instance, the local government is actively implementing reforms to streamline its administrative apparatus while simultaneously promoting economic growth and ensuring national security.
According to Hanoimoi, the district has reduced the number of steering committees from 43 to 17 and reorganized its professional divisions, cutting them from 12 to 10. This restructuring is intended to enhance efficiency and responsiveness to local needs. By April 10, 2025, the district reported a budget revenue of 4,420 billion VND, achieving 47.5% of its annual target, indicating a positive economic trajectory.
Local leaders express confidence that these changes will lead to more effective governance. Lâm Quang Thao, Deputy Secretary of the District Party Committee, stated that the reorganization aims to create a local government that is closer to the people and better equipped to serve their needs.
In Vinh Phuc province, the Provincial Party Committee has launched a project to merge and arrange new administrative units, seeking public input on the proposed changes. Officials and residents in Lien Hoa commune are supportive of the initiative, believing it will provide significant benefits for local governance and community development.
As part of the restructuring, Vinh Phuc plans to arrange 121 communes, wards, and towns into 36 new administrative units. This transformation is expected to enhance local governance, increase authority at the grassroots level, and create a more responsive government structure.
Community leaders, such as Trần Văn Sáu, Chairman of the Fatherland Front Committee of Ho Son commune, advocate for the two-level local government model, which aims to streamline the administrative apparatus, reduce redundancy, and improve budget efficiency. The new structure is anticipated to foster economic development, particularly in tourism, leveraging local resources and potential.
However, the transition also raises concerns about ensuring adequate staffing and resources for the newly formed units. Officials like Hoàng Kim Ngọc, Commander of the Military Command of Ngu Kien commune, emphasize the need for capable personnel to manage the expanded responsibilities effectively, particularly in areas related to security and public safety.
As Vinh Phuc prepares for significant changes, community members express the hope that the government will prioritize the historical and cultural significance of local names during the merging process. Residents like Nguyễn Thị Lệ from Dinh Trung ward advocate for a thoughtful approach that considers the legacy of place names while enhancing administrative efficiency.
In conclusion, the ongoing administrative restructuring in Vietnam represents a pivotal moment in local governance. By prioritizing historical and cultural considerations alongside modern administrative needs, the government aims to create a more unified and effective local government structure that serves the interests of the people while preserving the rich heritage of the regions.
