(DTTG) - The Khmer people view music and dance as a bridge between the realms of yin and yang. Dance expresses solidarity within the community, linked to beliefs, religion and typical rituals such as worshipping deities, processions, and prayers for peace. The Khmer people often say that everyone knows how to dance before they know how to read or write.
(DTTG) - The Southwestern region of Vietnam - a land of intricate network of rivers and waterways, fertile alluvial soil and a peaceful way of life captivating visitors not only with its scenery but also with its cuisine deeply rooted in the Southern spirit. Southwestern Vietnamese cuisine is not elaborate in its presentation or ostentatious with expensive ingredients, but it leaves a lasting impression on diners with its genuineness, generosity and warm human connection.
In the context of the country’s efforts to build a socialist rule of law state, perfecting the legal system regarding beliefs and religions is not only an urgent requirement for social management but also an important step in protecting human rights.
The year 2025 concluded with many significant milestones in the ethnic and religious affairs. The Journal of Ethnic and Religious Research presents to readers the outstanding events after a vibrant year for the entire sector.
Vietnam, with its rich cultural heritage and diverse festival system, faces a major challenge in the era of the market economy: commercialization. Transforming cultural and spiritual values into tourism products and services can generate enormous revenue, support conservation efforts, and promote the country’s image.
“In the old days, whenever there was a festival, gongs would resound throughout the village. Now there are gongs, and people playing them, but the sound is no longer natural, no longer the sound of the villagers...” - the heartfelt words of village elder Krajan Plin (64 years old, Buon Dang Ja, Lac Duong, Lam Dong province) deeply moved the listeners.
In Muong Khuong (Lao Cai province), while the mist still blankets the stilt houses, the locals’ phones are already ringing. A Hmong girl named Sui (La Thi Sui) is livestreaming to sell agricultural products, men men (corn porridge), honey, brocade fabrics...
On December 9th, 2025, the U.S Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) released an updated report on the situation in Vietnam containing biased and inaccurate assessments of the actual situation
In the religious life of Vietnamese people, burning votive paper has become a common custom, closely linked to the people’s belief that “what happens in the earthly world is reflected in the afterlife”. However, in the context of modern society, this practice is sparking debates about its compatibility with Buddhist teachings, the issue of wastefulness, and especially its negative impact on the environment. Gathering opinions from experts, researchers and managers will provide a multifaceted and insightful perspective on this issue.
