On March 25, 2025, significant changes to social work procedures were announced by Vietnam’s Ministry of Health, aiming to enhance and streamline the support systems available for vulnerable populations. This overhaul comprises 35 amended administrative procedures, while four existing ones have been abolished, primarily within the realm of social assistance and the prevention of social evils.
The recent reforms specifically target the operations of social aid organizations, which have been critical to Vietnam’s social welfare framework. According to Decision No. 1593/QD-LDTBXH issued on October 10, 2017, the Ministry has removed four administrative procedures that were previously under the jurisdiction of the Department of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs. The eliminated procedures included the registration for the establishment of private social assistance facilities as well as modifications to their operational licenses.
Moreover, the Ministry is introducing 16 new and revised administrative procedures at the provincial level relating to the recognition of establishments that employ a significant proportion of disabled workers. This includes provisions for establishing public social assistance entities managed by the Provincial People’s Committee and guidelines for the dissolution of both public and private social aid organizations in accordance with prevailing laws.
In addition, there will be three key administrative procedures spanning both provincial and district levels designed to facilitate social protection efforts for particularly vulnerable demographics. These address the admission of individuals in need of urgent assistance into suitable social assistance establishments.
Specifically at the district level, a dozen administrative procedures are being revamped. These encompass processes around monthly social allowances, care support payments, and operational licensing for social assistance facilities. Notably, the Ministry will now oversee procedures for emergency social assistance as well as for individuals in dire healthcare situations without access to family support.
The updates come at a time when many national and local institutions are reaffirming their commitment to enhance social support programs and strengthen community resilience. This drive was highlighted during the Vietnam Social Work Day ceremonies held on the same day, where various stakeholders gathered to review the accomplishments and ongoing efforts in social work across the nation.
During the celebration, TS Nguyen Dinh Hung, Vice Director of Hanoi’s Department of Health, emphasized the indelible link between social work and humanitarian objectives: “Social work is not just a profession but also a profound mission for humanity.” This emphasis on the humanitarian aspect echoes a broader recognition of the role social work plays in the lives of many.
Social work, as articulated by officials, is increasingly recognized for its professionalization and the formation of organized networks to support patients effectively. Notably, a wide variety of social assistance initiatives have developed within various healthcare settings, providing important healthcare, mental, and social services.
In 2024 alone, hospitals such as Hanoi Heart Hospital and Thanh Nhan Hospital reported substantial investments in social assistance, with nearly 2 billion VND and almost 1.4 billion VND allocated, respectively. These funds are pivotal in supporting patients with challenging circumstances, showcasing an ongoing commitment to the well-being of the community.
Featured in the celebration, the Department’s programs—including free haircuts, music sessions in hospitals, and educational initiatives—demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. As TS Đinh Hồng Phong, Deputy Director of the Department, noted, social work initiatives have enabled nearly 204,000 individuals in need to receive valuable services from the community.
Reflecting on the past success, the Vice Director proclaims that, “the development of social work in Vietnam has achieved remarkable milestones.” With this progress, there is a clear call to action for social work professionals and organizations to innovate their strategies further and invest in training to respond to the evolving needs of society.
With the 10th anniversary of Vietnam's first Social Work Day approaching, plans are being enacted to enhance both community support and awareness around the key objectives of social assistance, ensuring that no one is left behind.
The ceremony also served as a platform for honoring outstanding contributions within the sector. TS Nguyen Dinh Hung presented Certificates of Merit to ten organizations and recognized 52 individuals for their commitment and exemplary contributions to social work in Hanoi.
As part of a broader initiative, a fund was established, successfully mobilizing over 10 billion VND in contributions to support children in need—reinforcing the Ministry's mission of fostering a supportive environment for society’s most vulnerable groups.
Through these systematic changes and renewed focus on efficient administrative practices, Vietnam's Ministry of Health describes its ongoing dedication to not only support children and families in dire need but also to uplift the broader community with robust social welfare programs.
