Priority should be given to investing in the development of education and training in particularly disadvantaged areas, ethnic minority, border, islands, remote areas and for policy beneficiaries...Keywords: Ethnic policy; Achievements; The problem; Ethnic minorities; Sustainable development; A new era.
1. Introduction
Ethnic policy is an important part of Vietnam’s socio-economic development strategy. With 54 ethnic groups living together, ensuring the rights and promoting comprehensive development for ethnic minorities is a strategic task, clearly reflecting in the documents of the Party and the State. In the context of globalization and the Fourth Industrial Revolution, ethnic policies need to be re-evaluated and adjusted appropriately to meet new requirements, aiming for sustainable and inclusive development.
The issue of ethnicity and ethnic policies has always been one of the strategically important aspects in the development guidelines of the Vietnamese Party and State. Throughout the revolutionary process, from the period of the struggle for national independence to the current stage of national construction and defense, our Party has always affirmed: “Unity of ethnic groups is a strategic and long-term issue, a great driving force and resource of the revolutionary cause”. The past 95 years under the leadership of the Communist Party of Vietnam (since its founding in 1930) have proven that a correct, consistent and humane ethnic policy is one of the key factors ensuring political stability, promoting socio-economic development and consolidating the great national unity.
In the context of the country entering a period of accelerated industrialization, modernization and deep international integration, ethnic policy continues to be identified by the Party and the State as one of the important pillars in the national development strategy.
National target programs, such as the socio-economic development program for ethnic minority and mountainous areas, along with a system of preferential policies for investment and support in education, health and culture,… have contributed to fundamentally changing the face of ethnic minority areas, gradually narrowing the development gap between regions and ethnic groups. The traditional cultural values of ethnic minorities are preserved and promoted, their material and spiritual lives are constantly improving and the role of ethnic minorities is increasingly affirmed in the country’s development.
However, in the context of the “new era” with its prominent characteristics such as globalization, digital transformation, climate change, population aging, rapid urbanization and non-traditional security challenges, the issues facing ethnic policy are becoming increasingly complex and multifaceted. Some policies are still characterized by subsidies, scattered efforts and a lack of genuine effectiveness; coordination mechanisms between different levels and sectors in policy implementation are still overlapping; the awareness and capacity of ethnic affairs officials in some areas remain limited. In particular, the disparity in development levels, the risk of falling behind, the loss of cultural identity, along with the negative impacts of the market economy and social media are creating an urgent need to innovate thinking and approaches in formulating and implementing ethnic policies.
In this context, a comprehensive, objective and scientific review and assessment of the achievements as well as the challenges in implementing ethnic policies is an urgent requirement. This is significant not only in building upon the achievements already made and drawing valuable lessons learned, but also in guiding the development of a more appropriate ethnic policy system that aligns with the country’s development realities in the new period - this is the stage of aspiring to become a developed nation, with a prosperous people, a strong country, a democratic, just and civilized society.
2. Research results
2.1. Making a significant contribution to the socio-economic development of ethnic minority and mountainous areas
Over more than three decades of reform and development, the ethnic policy of the Vietnamese Party and State has undergone significant changes in terms of thinking, content and implementation methods. Planned on a consistent ideological foundation of equality, solidarity, respect and mutual support for development, ethnic policies not only aim to address social welfare issues and poverty reduction, but also play a crucial role in helping ethnic minority and mountainous areas gradually escape backwardness and integrate into the overall development process of the country.
Firstly, there has been a significant transformation in socio-economic infrastructure.
One of the most noticeable results of ethnic policies is the significant improvement in infrastructure in ethnic minority and mountainous regions - places once considered “development gaps”. Through national target programs and focused support projects, such as: Program 135, Program 134, Resolution 30a, the New Rural Development Program… and especially the National Target Program for socio-economic development in ethnic minority and mountainous areas for the period of 2021-2030, thousands of infrastructure projects including transportation, irrigation, power grids, schools, health stations and clean water supply… have been invested in and constructed.
As of 2024, according to statistics from the Committee for Ethnic Minority Affairs (now the Ministry of Ethnic and Religious Affairs), nearly 98% of communes in ethnic minority and mountainous areas have roads leading to their centers, over 94% of households use the national power grid and more than 80% of people have access to clean water... This not only facilitates production, circulation of goods, and economic and cultural exchange between regions, but also plays a crucial role in narrowing the development gap between mountainous and lowland areas.
Secondly, there have been outstanding results in poverty eradication and sustainable livelihood development.
Policies supporting production development, livelihood diversification and sustainable poverty reduction are among the pillars of the current ethnic policy. A series of agricultural and forestry production models tailored to regional characteristics have been implemented, helping people gradually transform the structure of crops and livestock, applying scientific and technological advancements to farming.
According to the report of the Central Steering Committee for National Target Programs for the period of 2021-2025, the average poverty reduction rate in ethnic minority areas reached 3.2%, exceeding the target of over 3%. The average income of ethnic minorities in 2025 is estimated to reach 45.9 million VND, a 3.3-fold increase compared to 2020, exceeding the growth target of over 2 times (Linh Khanh, 2025). Through support for production, vocational training and livelihood creation, many households have proactively developed production towards a commodity-oriented approach, applying science and technology and linking value chains, gradually rising up and moving towards sustainable wealth.
In addition, some localities with favorable conditions have risen to achieve average income levels equivalent to those in lowland areas, opening up opportunities for sustainable poverty alleviation. Furthermore, preferential credit policies, vocational training support, and job creation through programs of the Social Policy Bank, the Ministry of Labor, War Invalids and Social Affairs,... have positively impacted the enhancement of endogenous capacity, production development and income increase for the people.
Thirdly, there has been a significant improvement in social indicators: education, healthcare and the quality of life for the population.
Another significant achievement is the comprehensive social transformation, particularly in the fields of education and healthcare - factors that will determine the quality of the ethnic minority workforce in the long term.
Fourthly, strengthening the role, status and political participation of ethnic minorities.
Ethnic policy aims not only to improve socio-economic living standards but also to expand political participation and enhance the status of ethnic minorities within the political system.
Currently, thousands of officials from ethnic minority groups hold leadership positions in the political system, local governments, the National Assembly and various organizations. The training and development of ethnic minority cadres is given constant attention, clearly demonstrated through programs for selecting and admitting them to specialized schools, such as: Vietnam Academy for Ethnic Minorities, Central Ethnic Preparatory University, Sam Son Ethnic Preparatory University, Nha Trang Central Ethnic Preparatory University, Ho Chi Minh city Ethnic Preparatory University,… In particular, the active participation of the people in state management, community supervision, the implementation of grassroots democracy regulations has been increasingly enhanced, thereby strengthening confidence in the political system and contributing to stability in the area, especially in border regions and strategic areas.
From the above analysis, it can be affirmed that the ethnic policy of the Party and the State has played and continues to play a crucial role in creating strong socio-economic changes in ethnic minority and mountainous areas. It not only improves living standards and alleviates poverty, but also ensures human rights, unleashes the potential of the people and contributing to the comprehensive development of the country. These achievements clearly demonstrate the correctness, appropriateness and effectiveness of the strategic directions in ethnic affairs.
2.2. Ensuring equal rights, respecting and promoting the cultural identity of all ethnic groups
* The political and legal basis and viewpoints on ethnic and cultural equality.
From the very beginning of the nation’s founding, the Communist Party of Vietnam has consistently established the following viewpoint: “All ethnic groups in the great Vietnamese family are equal, united, respect and help each other to develop”. This viewpoint is not merely a political declaration but has been institutionalized in the Constitution and other important legal documents. The 2013 Constitution further affirms: “All ethnic groups are equal, united, respect and help each other to develop together; all acts of discrimination and division among ethnic groups are strictly prohibited” (Article 5, The 2013 Constitution).
Furthermore, specialized laws such as the Law on Gender Equality, the Law on Cultural Heritage, the Law on Beliefs and Religions, the Law on Education and thematic resolutions of the National Assembly and the Government all prioritize provisions for ethnic minority and mountainous areas, demonstrating the State’s commitment to ensuring equitable access to education, healthcare, information, culture and human development services.
* Achievements in preserving and promoting the cultural identity of ethnic groups.
Over the years, ethnic policies have focused not only on economic development but also on preserving, conserving and promoting the unique traditional cultural values of ethnic minority groups - a core element that makes up the diversity, richness and uniqueness of Vietnamese culture.
Firstly, hundreds of traditional festivals are revived and held regularly (such as the Gau Tao Festival of the Mong ethnic people, the Cau Mua Festival of the Thai ethnic people, the Then Festival of the Tay - Nung ethnic people...).
Secondly, cultural villages, ethnographic museums and folk culture research centers have been built and are operating increasingly effectively.
Thirdly, many traditional crafts such as brocade weaving, bronze casting, wind paper making and traditional musical instruments are encouraged to revive through the OCOP program, community tourism and economic development models linked to local culture.
Fourthly, education in ethnic minority languages has been piloted and implemented in many regions such as the Central Highlands, Northwest of Vietnam and the Mekong Delta.
In particular, the inscription of many intangible cultural heritage items of ethnic minorities into national and UNESCO lists, such as: The Then singing of the Tay, Nung and Thai ethnic people, the coming-of-age ceremony of the Dao ethnic people have contributed to raising social awareness of the value and role of ethnic culture in sustainable development.
* Challenges in ensuring rights and developing national culture in the new era.
Despite the achievements, the work of ensuring equal rights and promoting the culture of ethnic minorities is facing numerous challenges in the context of international integration and strong digital transformation.
Firstly, the risk of the erosion of traditional cultural identity due to urbanization, modernization, the influx of foreign cultural values and the negative aspects of the market economy. Many aspects of community cultural life, traditional festivals and local languages are no longer regularly maintained; young people tend to distance themselves from traditional cultural values due to a lack of suitable environments for access and education.
Secondly, the equal rights of ethnic minorities to participate in cultural life are not yet fully realized. Some grassroots cultural institutions are lacking or in disrepair, and communication and cultural programs lack linguistic diversity, limiting access to information. Subtle discrimination and bias in access to opportunities sometimes still exist in the perceptions and behaviors of some officials and in society.
Thirdly, the human resources working in ethnic culture are insufficient and weak, especially at the grassroots level. The application of digital technology to the preservation and digitization of cultural heritage is still slow and has not met the demands of the times.
* Orientation and solutions to improve policy effectiveness in the new period.
In order to ensure equal rights, respect and effective promotion of the cultural identity of ethnic groups in the new era, a comprehensive set of solutions needs to be implemented:
Firstly, fully institutionalize cultural rights in national law, ensuring supervised enforcement, evaluation and clear handling of violations.
Secondly, developing a strategy for preserving national culture in conjunction with socio-economic development, especially through community-based tourism models, cultural and handicraft products linked to the One Commune One Product program (OCOP).
Thirdly, promoting the digitization of cultural heritage and documents of ethnic minorities, increasing their accessibility, promotion and long-term preservation.
Fourthly, strengthening the training and development of cultural cadres from ethnic minority groups, who have the capacity to connect with communities and apply new technologies.
Fifthly, creating an environment for educating students about local culture in schools and communities, especially at the secondary school level and in extracurricular activities.
Sixthly, encouraging the participation of ethnic minority communities in the planning and implementation of cultural programs, thereby promoting genuine ownership and the spirit of self-reliance and self-improvement among ethnic minorities.
2.3. Strengthening national unity and solidarity, maintaining political stability and national security
Deeply aware of the strategic significance of the national issues and national unity, from its founding to the present day, our Party has always paid attention to building and innovating the effective implementation of ethnic policies, successfully resolving ethnic issues, thus consolidating social consensus and the great national unity bloc and promoting its immense driving role. Thanks to this, our country’s revolution has gone from one victory to another. And, through the revolutionary leadership process, the Party’s understanding and thinking on the ethnic issues, national unity and the strategic issues of the revolution have become increasingly substantive and profound. Therefore, at each Party Congress, our Party always pays attention to formulating and implementing ethnic policies and national unity.
In the Party’s documents from the past to the present (since the 6th Congress, 1986), the ethnic issues has always been given attention and identified as an urgent issue, an objective requirement that needs to be resolved in the process of building socialism. This includes consistently implementing the Party’s viewpoints on ethnic affairs as outlined in Resolution No. 24-NQ/TW dated March 12th, 2003, of the 9th Central Committee of the Party on ethnic affairs, Conclusion No. 65-KL/TW dated October 30th, 2019, of the Politburo on continuing to implement Resolution No. 24-NQ/TW of the 9th Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam on ethnic affairs in the new situation and the resolutions of the 11th, 12th, and 13th National Party Congresses; identifying ethnic affairs as a fundamental, long-term and urgent strategic issue; it is the task of the entire Party, the entire people, the entire army and the entire political system (Nguyen The Tung, Do Thi Thach, 2024).
Furthermore, in the context of current globalization, the issue of ethnicity is always related to issues of religion, democracy, human rights and to be often internationalized in its understanding and resolution. Therefore, more than ever, addressing the ethnic issue requires linking the implementation of ethnic policies with the implementation of religious policies, truly respecting and guaranteeing the right to freedom of belief, the right to follow or not follow a religion and the right to normal religious activities in accordance with the law. In reality, issues of ethnicity, religion and human rights are always sensitive. Hostile forces against the revolution always exploit these issues to incite division among the people, dividing ethnic groups and religions, undermining national unity and harming the common interests of the country. Therefore, effectively implementing ethnic, religious policies contributes to overcoming discrimination and division among ethnic groups and religions; overcoming feelings of inferiority and ethnic, religious inferiority complexes; and building national unity towards achieving the goal of a prosperous people, a strong nation, a just, democratic and civilized society.
In the context of accelerating the country’s industrialization, modernization and globalization, resolving ethnic issues may be easier, but it is also more complex, therefore, it requires us to constantly innovate and effectively implement ethnic policies to address these ethnic issues and contribute to consolidating and strengthening national unity. This is truly a cause of the entire nation and directly of the ethnic minority communities in Vietnam under the leadership of the Party. This also requires expanding and promoting democracy in the construction, improvement and full implementation of all forms of democracy (representative democracy, direct democracy and community self-governance), at the same time maintaining social discipline and national morality.
The ethnic issue and national unity is a crucial and strategic issue for our country’s revolution. Resolving the ethnic issue requires a thorough understanding of the Party’s comprehensive viewpoint on the ethnic issue and national unity:
The ethnic groups within the great Vietnamese family are equal, united, respectful and supportive of each other’s progress; together they will successfully carry out the cause of industrialization and modernization, building and protecting the socialist Vietnamese Fatherland. Only on the basis of effectively implementing the Party’s guidelines and policies on ethnic issues and national unity can the great national unity be consolidated and strengthened, creating a tremendous driving force for the country’s renewal and development.
2.4. Improving institutions and enhancing the effectiveness of state management in ethnic affairs
Given the demands for sustainable development, ensuring social justice and maintaining political stability in the new context, perfecting institutions and enhancing the effectiveness of state management in ethnic affairs is an urgent task. There is a need for clear direction, synchronized solutions, a focus and approaches that are appropriate to the characteristics of ethnic minority and mountainous areas.
Firstly, need to develop and enact a Law on ethnic affairs.
The enactment of the Law on Ethnic Affairs is an urgent requirement to overcome the lack of a unified legal basis and create a solid legal framework for the long-term planning and implementation of ethnic policies. The law needs to fully institutionalize the Party’s guidelines and policies and the provisions of the 2013 Constitution on ethnic issues; ensuring the principles of equality, respect, solidarity and the development of the internal strengths of ethnic minorities.
The law also needs to clearly define the roles, functions and responsibilities of state agencies in managing ethnic affairs; stipulate mechanisms for effective decentralization, coordination, supervision and evaluation of policy implementation.
Secondly, improving the system of ethnic policies in an integrated and interdisciplinary manner.
Policy frameworks need to be developed in an integrated, holistic and multi-sectoral manner, avoiding the overlapping and fragmentation that currently exists. It is necessary to review, amend, or abolish policies that are no longer appropriate; at the same time, design new policies based on actual needs, socio-cultural characteristics and development conditions of each ethnic group and region.
In particular, attention should be paid to policies related to the development of education, healthcare, sustainable poverty reduction, human resource development, cultural preservation, livelihood transformation and climate change adaptation in ethnic minority areas.
Thirdly, strengthening the capacity of state management and improve the quality of the cadre working on ethnic affairs.
It is necessary to improve the organizational structure for ethnic affairs work from the central to the local level, ensuring sufficient authority and capacity to advise on and organize the effective implementation of policies. At the same time, emphasis should be placed on providing in-depth training and development for cadre, especially those from ethnic minority groups, in administrative management, policy making and skills in working with culturally diverse communities.
Encouraging the development of a team of officials who are both politically sound and professionally competent, knowledgeable about the customs and traditions and languages of the people and capable of acting as a bridge between the government and the people.
Fourthly, promoting decentralization and strengthening the accountability of local governments.
State management of ethnic affairs needs to be clearly decentralized, linked to the specific responsibilities of each level of government, especially the grassroots level - where implementation and interaction with the people are directly organized. Local authorities need to be given more autonomy in designing solutions that suit local conditions, at the same time to being held accountable for monitoring and evaluating the implementation of ethnic policies in an open and transparent manner.
Fifthly, strengthening the application of information technology, monitoring and evaluation mechanisms.
It is necessary to develop a digital database system on ethnic minorities to help make policy planning and policy implementation monitoring more accurate and timely. At the same time, it is necessary to build an independent monitoring mechanism with the participation of the people, socio-political organizations and ethnic minority communities in evaluating policy effectiveness.
Sixthly, promoting the role of ethnic minorities in policy formulation and monitoring.
Ethnic minorities should not only be considered beneficiaries of policies but also active participants in the process of policy formulation, implementation and monitoring. It is necessary to create conditions for people to participate in the decision-making process, providing feedback and contributing opinions on programs and projects related to their communities.
2.5. The problems facing the new era.
Despite achieving significant accomplishments, in the context of a new era with profound changes in the economy, society, technology and environment, ethnic policies still face many challenges and urgent needs to be addressed in order to continue to be effective and meet the goals of sustainable development.
Firstly, the disparity in development and the gap between rich and poor among regions and ethnic groups remain significant.
Secondly, there is the risk of the erosion and gradual loss of the traditional cultural identity of ethnic minorities.
Thirdly, environmental challenges and climate change seriously affect the lives of ethnic minority communities.
Fourthly, there is a need for innovative thinking and improved capacity in implementing ethnic policies.
Fifthly, promoting the participation of ethnic minorities in the development process.
3. Discussion
Vietnam’s ethnic policy has always been considered one of the important pillars in its national development strategy, especially in the context of a country with diverse ethnic groups and complex topography. The achievements of ethnic policies over the past three decades not only demonstrate significant progress in the material and spiritual lives of ethnic minority communities but also contributing sustainably to socio-political stability and strengthen national unity. However, the dynamics and transformations of society in the new era also present multifaceted challenges, requiring fundamental and comprehensive reforms in ethnic policy approaches. Therefore, further attention and research are needed on the following issues:
Firstly, it is necessary to strengthen leadership and guidance, raising awareness and responsibility of Party committees and organizations at all levels regarding ethnic affairs, especially in ethnic minority and mountainous areas in the new situation. Persistently implement the Party’s viewpoints on ethnic affairs as outlined in Resolution No. 24-NQ/TW dated March 12th, 2003, of the 9th Central Committee on ethnic affairs, Conclusion No. 65-KL/TW dated October 30th, 2019, of the Politburo on continuing to implement Resolution No. 24-NQ/TW of the Central Committee of the 9th Party Congress on ethnic affairs in the new situation and the resolutions of the 11th, 12th and 13th National Party Congresses; at the same time, it was determined that ethnic affairs are a fundamental, long-term and urgent strategic issue; a task for the entire Party, the entire people, the entire army and the entire political system.
Secondly, enhancing the capacity, effectiveness and efficiency of state management in ethnic affairs. Review, amend, supplement, integrate and consolidate existing policies to perfect the system of policies related to ethnic minorities, ethnic minority and mountainous areas. Innovating methods of policy formulation and implementation, continuing to effectively implement the National Target Program for Sustainable Socio-Economic Development in ethnic minority and mountainous areas in the period of 2026-2030 (Nguyen The Tung, Do Thi Thach, 2024).
Thirdly, focus on improving the quality of activities of Party organizations, government agencies, people’s mass organizations and grassroots cadres in ethnic minority and mountainous areas. Strengthening the development of Party members from ethnic minorities and overcoming the situation of lacking Party organizations and members in villages and hamlets, especially Party members from ethnic minorities in key areas, particularly difficult areas and border regions. Effectively implement grassroots democracy, strengthening the operation of self-governance models in the community; commending, honoring and encouraging exemplary individuals, entrepreneurs and scientists in ethnic minority communities who have made significant contributions to the cause of national construction and defense.
Fourthly, promoting the role of the Fatherland Front and people’s organizations in resolving ethnic issues. The Fatherland Front and people’s organizations need to actively participate in disseminating information and mobilizing all strata of the people to implement ethnic policies; coordinating with all levels of government to propagate and guide ethnic minorities in eliminating backward customs and social evils; deeply understanding the thoughts and aspirations of the people, paying attention to protecting the legitimate rights and interests of ethnic minorities, especially those belonging to vulnerable groups in society, such as women, the elderly, children and the poor (Nguyen The Tung & Do Thi Thach, 2024).
In addition, the Vietnam Fatherland Front and people’s organizations need to innovate the content and methods of their activities, proactively developing plans to participate in socio-economic development programs through policy critique and monitoring of implementation. In organizing patriotic emulation movements, the Fatherland Front, people’s organizations and local authorities need close coordination and measures to replicate advanced exemplary models, good people, good deeds and positive factors among ethnic minorities (Nguyen The Tung &,. Do Thi Thach, 2024).
In summary, ethnic policies in the new era need to be approached from a multi-faceted perspective, harmoniously combining economic development, cultural preservation, environmental protection and improving management capacity, with the active participation of ethnic minorities. Only in this way can policies truly become effective tools, contributing to building a strong national unity and sustainable national development in the context of global integration and rapid change.
4. Conclusion
Vietnam’s ethnic policy has achieved many important accomplishments over the past three decades, contributing to building national unity and comprehensive socio-economic development. Improving the effectiveness and efficiency of ethnic policy implementation is not only the responsibility of the State but also requiring the collective effort of the entire society.
Therefore, ethnic policy is one of the important pillars contributing to maintaining political and social stability and sustainable development of the country. In the context of this new era, continued innovation in thinking, methods and content of ethnic policies is essential to realizing the aspiration for a prosperous and happy nation, in which no one is left behind - especially ethnic minorities.
* Journal of Ethnic and Religious Research
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