English review

(DTTG) - Abstract: Religion is a form of social consciousness that exerts a widespread and profound influence on the spiritual life of the people. In Vietnam, the diversity of religious traditions and beliefs serves as a vivid testament to a nation rich in cultural identity. However, the issue of religion has consistently been a primary focus exploited by hostile forces to advance their “peaceful evolution” strategy, smear the political system, and incite divisions within the great national unity. This article aims to systematically identify common, distorted narratives ranging from false allegations that the State suppresses religion to the administrative and political manipulation of routine spiritual activities. On this basis, the author provides an in-depth analysis of the scientific, legal, and practical foundations of religious life in Vietnam to directly refute these claims. Furthermore, the article proposes a comprehensive set of solutions ranging from the refinement of legislation and state management to external communication efforts aimed at firmly safeguarding the Party’s ideological foundation while ensuring the people’s legitimate right to freedom of belief and religion.

(DTTG) - Abstract: Based on the results of the 2019 and 2024 surveys on the socio-economic status of 53 ethnic minority groups (to be released in late November 2025), this article analyzes fertility levels, changing trends, and disparities among these ethnic minority groups within the context of population aging in Vietnam. The results indicate a downward trend in fertility rates across ethnic groups, though with significant variation. A pattern of early childbearing remains prevalent, particularly among those aged 20-24, which contributes to maintaining a young population structure in ethnic minority and mountainous regions. However, high fertility rates and a large young population do not equate to high-quality human resources, as early childbearing is often linked to limited access to education, employment and social services. Based on this, the article proposes a policy approach centered on targeted interventions and the adjustment of reproductive behaviors. It emphasizes the role of education, livelihood development and reproductive health services tailored to the specific cultural characteristics of different ethnic groups with the dual aim of adapting to population aging and ensuring sustainable development.

(DTTG) - In recent years, the bamboo-skin persimmon has emerged as a prized seasonal delicacy from Thai Nguyen mountainous region. Notably, despite their high price, these persimmons are highly sought after so much so that supply often fails to keep up with demand. The harvest season for these persimmons typically runs from late August to late September each year.

(DTTG) - Located in the more than 3,000-year-old Sa Huynh cultural space, Go Co not only preserves valuable archaeological traces but also preserves the unique rock salt making profession with a history of thousands of years. From the coastal rocks, generations of residents here have created “salt flowers” crystallized from the sun, wind and generations-old knowledge of Quang Ngai people’s heritage.

(DTTG) - Larb (Lap) is considered the quintessential dish within the culinary culture of the Lao people living in the northwestern provinces. In the Lao language, the pronunciation of Larb bears a close resemblance to the word “fortune” or “prosperity”; consequently, this dish is an indispensable part of celebrations, social gatherings and community rituals.

(DTTG) - In the Central Highlands, there exists a very humble dish that embodies the history of survival of the indigenous ethnic minority communities: a dish made from cassava leaves. Requiring neither elaborate ingredients nor complex preparation techniques, its very simplicity has come to define the unique culinary signature of this land of red basalt soil.

(DTTG) - The silkworm pours its entire life into lustrous strands of silk. Similarly, the Thai ethnic women of Hoa Tien village, Chau Tien commune, Nghe An province, dedicate their lives to the diligent spinning of silk threads weaving a prosperous life for themselves in their homeland.

(DTTG) - The stories of two Mnong men, Y Xim Ndu from Dak Lieng commune and Y Sol Sruk from Lien Son commune (Lak District, Dak Lak province) illustrate a tourism approach increasingly adopted by young people in the Central Highlands: immersing visitors in the life of the local villages.

(DTTG) - A smartphone can serve as a tool to promote products, open up markets, find customers, make sales and create jobs. In the particularly disadvantaged communes of Lang Son province, digital transformation is turning the existing assets of local villages into new livelihood opportunities, all thanks to the smartphone.

(DTTG) - Abstract: Located in Asia, Vietnam serves as a meeting point for Southeast Asian, Indian and Chinese cultures, as well as Western civilizations. Its geography featuring a diverse landscape of mountains, plains, rivers and a vast coastline offers a climate favorable for agricultural development, yet the country is also frequently affected by natural disasters and disease outbreaks. This context gave rise to a rich system of Vietnamese beliefs centered on aspirations for national peace, favorable weather, and a prosperous life. Through a process of cultural exchange and integration, a diverse array of religions has also developed across the country’s various regions, reflecting the richness and variety of the Vietnamese people's spiritual needs both past and present. As a religiously diverse nation, Vietnam early on established guidelines, policies and laws to guarantee everyone’s right to freedom of belief and religion, while preventing unlawful religious activities that harm the lives of the people and the country’s social stability.

(DTTG) - Located more than 15 km from the center of Thanh Yen commune, Dien Bien province, Pung Bon village is home to 59 households and 276 residents, all belonging to the Cong ethnic group. The concrete road, the bridge spanning the Nam Nua stream, sturdy houses and lush green wet-rice fields reflect the new face of a village that once struggled for years against poverty and a lack of means of production. This transformation stems from the support policies of the Party and the State, the active involvement of local authorities and the way residents themselves have embraced and adopted these measures to gradually change their lives.

(DTTG) - Forbearance has been practiced throughout the world since ancient times. When exercised with positive and virtuous intent, it cannot be dismissed as cowardice or passivity. In Buddhism, as previously noted, forbearance is an expression of wisdom and compassion, as well as a testament to the stages of liberation that lead to the ultimate goal of Nirvana (Niet ban).

(DTTG) - With ethnic minority groups including the Nung, Tay, Kinh, Dao, Hoa, San Chay and Mong accounting for approximately 83.91% of its population, Lang Son province regards the development of ethnic minority and mountainous areas as a task of strategic importance. Five years into the implementation of National Target Program 1719 (2021-2025), new roads, production models, livelihood initiatives and essential infrastructure are generating fresh momentum for residents in these highland regions to improve their lives. However, the greater challenge remains how to translate policy resources into sustainable livelihoods, stable incomes and the community’s capacity for self-development.

(DTTG) - Vu Lan of Filial Piety is not merely an annual ritual; it is a bond connecting people to their roots and a means of upholding the moral foundations of both family and society. In modern times, preserving and truly honoring the values ​​of the Vu Lan season allows Vietnamese people to affirm their cultural identity and safeguard spiritual assets for future generations. Below, experts share their perspectives on this special occasion.

(DTTG) - Abstract: Organic farming is emerging as an inevitable development trend aimed at achieving a green, safe, and sustainable agricultural sector. The Northern mountainous region holds significant potential for organic agriculture development, thanks to its favorable natural ecological conditions, abundant land resources, high biodiversity and the local knowledge systems of ethnic minority communities. This article primarily analyzes the current situation, opportunities and challenges regarding organic agriculture development in this region. By synthesizing research, policies and practical models, the article argues that organic agriculture not only enhances the value of agricultural products and boosts farmers’ incomes but also protects the environment, facilitates climate change adaptation and promotes sustainable development in the Northern mountainous region. Based on this, the author proposes several solutions to enhance the effectiveness of organic agricultural development in the coming period.

(DTTG) - Unencumbered by elaborate formalities or rigid dogma, the Pure Land Lay Buddhist Association of Vietnam has long served as a familiar source of spiritual and charitable support for the people of Southern Vietnam, thanks to a simple approach to practice rooted in the guiding principle of “cultivating both merit and wisdom”.