In April 2025, significant changes in the administrative landscape of Vietnam were marked by a series of meetings and resolutions aimed at restructuring local governance. The press has played a crucial role in disseminating information regarding these developments, focusing on policies, plans, and roadmaps for arranging administrative units and building a new two-level local government organization model.
During this month, various media outlets highlighted the government's initiatives to ensure traffic safety, fire prevention, crime control, and the fight against illegal fishing. Additionally, they commemorated the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of Binh Thuan province and the reunification of Vietnam, which both occurred in late April.
At a recent conference, the Department of Home Affairs presented updates on the implementation of Resolution 76 from the National Assembly Standing Committee, which outlines the restructuring of administrative units for 2025. The consensus among the local populace has been overwhelmingly supportive of the merging of administrative units, particularly the dissolution of certain district-level governments as directed by the central government. The province has initiated the process of naming 45 new administrative units, ensuring that the names reflect local traditions and history, while also addressing the sentiments of the residents. The names of the province and the districts will be preserved in the new designations for the wards and communes.
In addition to the administrative restructuring, updates regarding housing conditions were shared by the Department of Agriculture and Environment, which is making strides in eliminating temporary and dilapidated homes across the province. The Department of Education and Training also provided insights into the upcoming 2025 high school graduation exam, with an emphasis on online registration through the Ministry's management system.
As the province looks to the future, the focus will shift to creating consensus among government officials, party members, and citizens regarding the ongoing reorganization of the political system. The press is expected to play an integral role in promoting the upcoming commemorations, including the 135th anniversary of President Ho Chi Minh's birth and the 115th anniversary of his teaching in Phan Thiet.
Meanwhile, in Dak Lak province, the local People's Council convened a significant session on April 25, 2025, to approve the merger of Dak Lak and Phu Yen provinces. This merger will result in Dak Lak having 68 commune-level administrative units, a reduction of 112 units or 62.22%. The new administrative unit will cover an area of 18,096.40 square kilometers, with a population exceeding 3.3 million people.
Huỳnh Thị Chiến Hòa, the Vice Secretary of the Dak Lak Provincial Party Committee, emphasized the importance of adhering to central directives, noting the proactive and responsible efforts made by local authorities to finalize the merger and address the needs of the residents. The council also passed multiple resolutions related to public investment and budget allocations, aimed at enhancing the local economy and addressing social welfare.
In Quang Nam province, the local government has decided to retain the name “Hoi An” for the newly established wards following administrative restructuring. This decision came after considerable public consultation, reflecting the community's desire to maintain its historical identity. The three new wards will be named Hoi An, Hoi An Dong, and Hoi An Tay, with the island commune of Tan Hiep remaining unchanged.
On April 18, the Quang Nam Provincial Party Committee issued Resolution 45, which outlined the plan to reduce the number of administrative units from 233 to 88. However, following public feedback, the decision to keep the name Hoi An was made to preserve the city’s reputation as a UNESCO World Heritage site, which is vital for tourism and local businesses.
In Vinh city, the local People's Council also convened on April 25 to discuss the arrangement of administrative units. With over 97% of the electorate participating in the voting process, 95.94% supported the proposed changes, which would reduce the number of wards from 33 to 6. The new wards will be named Vinh I, Vinh II, Vinh III, Vinh IV, Vinh V, and Cua Lo, reflecting a systematic approach to governance.
These developments across various provinces illustrate a nationwide trend towards administrative efficiency and responsiveness to local needs. The government's commitment to restructuring is evident in the careful planning and consultation processes that have characterized these changes. As localities work towards finalizing their proposals for administrative restructuring, the emphasis remains on ensuring that the new arrangements serve the best interests of the communities involved.
As Vietnam moves forward with these significant changes, the role of the press in informing the public and fostering dialogue will be crucial. The upcoming months will see continued efforts to engage citizens in discussions about their governance and ensure that their voices are heard in shaping the future of their communities.
