On May 9, 2025, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh chaired a pivotal Government meeting focused on the arrangement and reorganization of administrative units across all levels, alongside the construction of a two-level local government organization model. This meeting is a significant step in a broader initiative aimed at streamlining governance and enhancing the efficiency of public service delivery.
The Prime Minister emphasized the urgency of implementing this new structure by July 1, ensuring that there is no interruption or obstruction in operations, particularly concerning administrative procedures that affect citizens and businesses. "The process of implementation must ensure the smooth operation and no interruption of agencies and daily activities of people and businesses," he stated.
As part of this reorganization, the Government plans to consolidate administrative units at the provincial level while eliminating the district level, effectively merging commune levels into a more efficient structure. Following these changes, the country will consist of 34 provinces and cities directly under the Central Government, with a projected total of 3,193 commune-level administrative units.
During the meeting, Chinh highlighted that the 11th Central Conference had previously approved the project to merge provincial-level administrative units, signaling a historic shift in how local governance will operate. This initiative is not just about restructuring but also aims to decentralize authority, allocate resources more effectively, and create new avenues for development. The goal is to build a government that is closer to the people and better serves their needs.
The Prime Minister commended local governments for their proactive approach in implementing these directives, stressing the importance of public input in the reorganization process. He noted that localities have been actively gathering feedback from citizens to ensure that the restructuring aligns with community needs and expectations.
In preparation for these changes, the Government has established a Steering Committee responsible for overseeing the arrangement of administrative units and the development of the two-level local government model. This committee is tasked with ensuring that all proposed changes adhere to legal frameworks and meet the necessary regulatory requirements.
As the Government prepares to submit the project proposals to the National Assembly for approval, Chinh has called for contributions from delegates at the meeting to refine these proposals further. The aim is to ensure that all aspects of the reorganization are thoroughly considered and that the Government is well-prepared to implement the new structure effectively.
After the National Assembly ratifies the proposed changes to administrative units and the local government structure, the Government is committed to promptly initiating the new arrangements. The Planning Committee has been instructed to monitor the implementation process closely, addressing any challenges that may arise during the transition.
Moreover, the Government recognizes the importance of developing a robust legal framework that supports the new local government structure. This includes defining the scope of decentralization and the distribution of authority between central and local governments, ensuring clarity in roles and responsibilities at both levels.
In light of these changes, the Prime Minister has urged ministries and agencies to expedite their reports on the implementation of decentralization. This step is crucial for informing the Politburo of the progress and challenges faced during the restructuring process.
As Vietnam moves forward with this ambitious plan, the focus remains on creating a governance model that not only streamlines administrative procedures but also enhances the quality of service provided to citizens. The overarching goal is to transition from a reactive to a proactive government that effectively meets the needs of its people.
As the July deadline approaches, all eyes will be on the Government’s ability to execute these changes without disrupting daily life for the citizens and businesses that rely on efficient public services. The successful implementation of this two-level local government model could serve as a blueprint for future governance reforms in Vietnam.
