As the 100th anniversary of Vietnamese Revolutionary Journalism approaches, the nation’s media landscape is reflecting deeply on its past achievements and future directions. From the rise of intellectual journalism to the embrace of multimedia reporting and the enduring spirit of revolutionary press, Vietnam’s journalistic community is navigating a transformative era marked by technological innovation and a renewed commitment to public service.
One of the most significant shifts in contemporary journalism is the emergence of "intellectual journalism," a concept that has gained traction amid the explosion of social media and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in news production. According to Vietnamese media expert Nguyễn Tri Thức, this form of journalism goes beyond merely reporting events; it emphasizes providing insightful, well-reasoned, and deeply informed content that addresses not only the "what," "where," and "when" but also the crucial "why" and "how." This approach is encapsulated in the 5I framework—Informed, Intelligent, Interesting, Insightful, and Interpretation—which guides journalists in producing quality work that stands out in an era flooded with information.
The rise of social media has eroded traditional journalism’s monopoly on breaking news, forcing newsrooms to rethink their roles. Instead of competing on speed alone, intellectual journalism prioritizes depth, clarity, and context, helping readers navigate the complex realities behind headlines. This transformation also involves adopting new storytelling techniques such as data journalism, multi-platform content, and innovative digital mega-stories that combine blogs, podcasts, and videos to engage audiences more effectively.
Alongside intellectual journalism, multimedia journalism has become an indispensable trend. In Quang Tri Province, for example, reporters like Nguyễn Trúc Phương and Lê Thị Thanh Thủy exemplify the modern journalist’s multifaceted skill set. They master writing, filming, audio recording, video editing, and graphic design to produce rich multimedia content such as e-magazines, video clips, and infographics. This versatility is essential in the digital age, where audiences consume news across various platforms including Facebook, TikTok, YouTube, and Twitter.
Quang Tri Newspaper’s transition to an electronic format in 2020 marked a significant milestone, reflecting broader efforts to modernize provincial journalism. Investments in high-tech equipment, content management systems, and stable network infrastructure have enabled the newspaper to deliver timely and engaging content. Additionally, collaboration with journalists’ associations and training centers has fostered skill development in multimedia production and AI applications, helping reporters overcome challenges posed by rapid technological change.
However, this evolution is not without hurdles. Some journalists, especially in local party-affiliated newspapers, still rely on traditional methods and struggle to fully exploit new technologies. Hoàng Ngọc Sỹ, Standing Vice Chairman of the Quang Tri Journalists’ Association, stresses that embracing technology is no longer optional but a necessity, as it opens new avenues for storytelling and enhances value for both journalists and readers. He advocates for continuous learning, teamwork, and experimentation with fresh formats to sustain the vitality of multimedia journalism in the 4.0 era.
While the future of journalism is being shaped by innovation, the profession’s foundational values remain steadfast. The "Lửa bút" (Pen Fire) program in Nghệ An Province celebrated this spirit by honoring the legacy of President Hồ Chí Minh, who laid the groundwork for revolutionary journalism in Vietnam. Veteran journalists recounted tales of resilience and dedication, from battling harsh conditions in mountainous regions to producing investigative reports that hold power to account. Their stories reveal a profession deeply committed to social responsibility and the public good.
Journalists like Trần Hồng Cơ, Phan Thị Thúy Liên, and Trần Duy Ngoãn shared personal reflections on maintaining the "fire" of journalism through periods of upheaval and change. The program also highlighted the challenges of modern reporting, including the pressures faced by television journalists in the multimedia age and the need for courage when covering sensitive topics. Importantly, Nghệ An’s press has played a vital role in social welfare initiatives, exemplified by projects like the "Chom Lom Bridge" and the "Bridge of Compassion," which demonstrate journalism’s power to foster community solidarity and humanitarian action.
Looking ahead, leaders in Nghệ An’s media and government sectors emphasized the importance of adapting to digital transformation while preserving journalistic integrity. Tran Minh Ngoc, Chairman of the Nghệ An Journalists’ Association, urged reporters to innovate their thinking and embrace technology without compromising their guiding principles and social responsibilities. Provincial officials echoed this sentiment, highlighting the need for effective state management and supportive policies to enable journalism to thrive sustainably.
Meanwhile, the newspaper Báo Đại biểu Nhân dân (People's Representative) stands out as a beacon of official, reliable information about the activities of the National Assembly and People's Councils. As noted by Duy Hoàng Dương, Head of the Legal Department of the Hanoi People's Council, the paper serves as a vital forum and "handbook" for legislators and constituents alike. It bridges the gap between elected officials and voters through interactive sections that allow citizens to voice concerns and representatives to respond transparently.
In a media environment often cluttered with misinformation, Báo Đại biểu Nhân dân’s role in delivering accurate, timely, and authoritative news is invaluable. It provides nuanced analysis of legislation and policies, fostering a more informed electorate capable of meaningful participation. The newspaper’s commitment to transparency and public engagement strengthens democratic processes and builds trust in governance.
Nguyễn Nguyên Quân, Deputy Director of Hanoi’s Department of Ethnic Minorities and Religions, praised the newspaper’s contributions to promoting understanding and unity among diverse communities. Through specialized publications and coverage of religious and ethnic affairs, the paper helps disseminate important legal information and fosters social cohesion. It also serves as a platform for feedback, enabling authorities to address community needs more effectively.
Long-time reader Huỳnh Thân highlighted the newspaper’s innovative use of digital media, including videos, infographics, and online discussions, which resonate with younger and more tech-savvy audiences. This evolution reflects a broader trend of digitization and multi-platform journalism that enhances accessibility without sacrificing depth or quality.
As Vietnamese journalism celebrates a century of revolutionary tradition, these developments illustrate a vibrant, adaptive, and principled press. From intellectual rigor and multimedia mastery to enduring dedication and social impact, Vietnam’s journalists continue to illuminate the path forward, honoring their heritage while embracing the future.
