Vietnam's recent efforts to streamline its public security forces have sparked significant changes and discussions across various local and provincial administrations. Starting March 1, 2025, the Ministry of Public Security plans to implement structural reforms aimed at enhancing efficiency and effectiveness within local police organizations. This change is part of the government's broader objective to improve public administration and response capabilities, including the management of fire prevention and fighting (PCCC) tasks.
Under the revised directives stemming from the Party Central Committee's conclusions, the local police will not organize at the district (huyện) level anymore. Instead, responsibilities will shift to the provincial level, particularly the Fire Prevention and Rescue Police Department (Cảnh sát PCCC và CNCH). This transition will commence officially from March 1, with all entities previously managed by district police transferring their oversight to the provincial department.
On February 25, the provincial police announced procedural guidelines to inform businesses and citizens of these upcoming changes—aiming to keep processes uninterrupted and to meet the legitimate needs of organizations and individuals. For those requiring assistance with fire prevention and rescue efforts, they are encouraged to contact the Quảng Nam provincial Fire Prevention and Rescue Police Department at its central office located on Trưng Nữ Vương Street, Tam Kỳ City, with the designated hotline available for any inquiries.
Officials specified the details of nine administrative processes related to fire safety and emergency rescue previously handled by district police. These include approvals for fire safety plans, the reactivation of facilities, and certification of fire training. With the implementation of the centralized system, all related applications must now be processed through the provincial police's online service platform, available at the Ministry of Public Security's official website.
These sweeping changes reflect not just organizational reformation but also significant expectations of enhanced operational effectiveness. According to local officials, the previous multi-tier structure created inefficiencies and often led to delays, which are now expected to be addressed through the new streamlined approach.
Meanwhile, the capitals of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City will see new management structures, following the recent promulgation of Decree No. 45/2025 by the government. This decree allows these two major cities to establish 15 departments, with provisions for each to add up to ten deputy directors. This flexibility aims to empower local governments to tailor their administration to specific regional needs, recognizing the unique demands placed upon urban centers.
The decree outlines key governmental bodies to be established uniformly across provinces, including the Departments of Internal Affairs, Justice, Finance, Trade, Agriculture and Rural Development, Science and Technology, Health, and Education, among others. Additional specialized departments for foreign affairs, ethnic policies, and tourism are also recognized, allowing Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to align their strategic planning and resource allocation with local priorities.
Each director for these departments will be appointed by the provincial-level People's Committee and will directly report to this governance body, ensuring accountability and alignment with broader national policies. This reorganization signifies the government's commitment to address both oversight and operational management within these key functions.
Transitioning to the newly established departmental structures also means adapting to changes within the administrative hierarchy. Despite the requisite adjustments, officials are optimistic about the potential improvements and highlight the need for thorough coordination and communication during the transition phase.
Hà Mạnh Hùng, former head of the Hoàn Kiếm District Police, expressed gratitude for the smooth transition, recounting his years of service and emphasizing the importance of adapting to this reform. “This restructuring is about more than just efficiency; it’s about working closer with the community,” he noted.
Onsite observations revealed local officers still actively engaged with citizens during the reorganization. Residents expressed relief over continuity, with public services remaining unaffected through these initial changes. “I was worried about the complications arising from these changes,” shared Nguyễn Thu Hương, who sought civil documentation at the Hoàn Kiếm facility. “To my delight, the staff were incredibly helpful, ensuring everything would function without disruption.”
The structural shifts are not limited only to police headquarters. Following the government’s published guidelines, the Ministry of Industry and Trade has dissolved the General Department of Market Management, merging its functions with domestic market management segments. This consolidation aims to streamline efforts against counterfeiting and to properly oversee domestic trade and competition.
The newly formed Department of Management and Development of the Domestic Market will work closely with local authorities to regulate markets effectively and to promote local products. “Together, we’ll enforce compliance and protect consumer rights more vigorously than before,” highlighted the Ministry's spokesperson.
These changes come amid increased demands for efficiency and accountability within government operations at all levels. The reforms not only aim to simplify the bureaucratic process but also to empower local officials to respond more agilely to community issues and to enhancements across sectors.
Following the official directives, the concerted approach at all administrative levels signifies Vietnam's commitment to modernizing its governance structures and ensuring its security forces operate at the highest standard. Stakeholders believe these reforms are necessary steps toward aligning public administration with international standards, reflecting both transparency and increased citizen engagement.
Overall, the restructuring of Vietnam’s public security and administrative apparatus signifies significant changes aimed at fostering efficiency and responsiveness. These efforts will likely shape the nature of public engagement, streamline approval processes, and potentially drive closer community relations moving forward. The success of such substantial changes rests heavily on effective implementation grounded upon strong leadership, adaptability, and public trust as the country navigates these uncharted waters of reform.