The term “rapid-fire” aptly captures the whirlwind pace at which Vietnam is advancing its revolution to streamline its political apparatus. 

On the morning of December 1, at the National Conference to review Resolution 18 and discuss the socio-economic situation for the first 11 months of 2024, the Party Central Committee unveiled a comprehensive reorganization plan for the political system. 

This unprecedented blueprint provides specific directions for restructuring key entities, including the Party, the Vietnam Fatherland Front, political-social organizations, the National Assembly, and the Government.

The overarching goal? A leaner, more efficient machinery achieved through structural overhauls, mergers, and the reassignment of functions among existing organizations.

A pace unmatched in history

The urgency driving this initiative is palpable. Indeed, “urgent” doesn’t fully encapsulate the momentum; the process is nothing short of “lightning-fast.”

In a span of mere months in 2024, this sweeping reform has been conceived and set in motion, a speed rarely seen in policymaking.

Since August 3, when To Lam was elected General Secretary by the Party Central Committee, the agenda for organizational reform has gained unprecedented traction.

In his September 20 speech concluding the 10th Plenum of the 13th Party Central Committee, To Lam initially called for refining the Party’s organizational structure, emphasizing efficiency and effectiveness.

He declared the need to streamline the machinery of the Party, National Assembly, Government, and socio-political organizations to operate as a cohesive and intelligent "general staff" for the nation.

By November 5, in a detailed article titled “Lean - Compact - Strong - Efficient,” the General Secretary described the systemic shortcomings in Vietnam’s political framework and invoked the term “revolution” for the first time:

“Strategic opportunities arising from 40 years of national renovation present Vietnam with a historic juncture to step into an era of growth and resurgence. This demands a decisive revolution to create a truly streamlined, effective, and efficient political system, capable of addressing the challenges of this new era.”

This revolutionary vision was reaffirmed in his November 25 speech at the closing of the 13th Party Central Committee’s Plenum:

“We must show the highest political determination to implement the Party Central Committee's directive on restructuring the political system. This task is critical - indeed, it is a revolution in organizational reform that seeks to ensure efficiency and effectiveness at every level.”

In contrast to previous approaches, where policy formulation and implementation often spanned years, this initiative has accelerated at breakneck speed. Within four months, the blueprint for organizational restructuring has emerged - a pace that underscores the urgency and resolve behind this effort.

The second hallmark of this initiative is its resolute execution. The proposed restructuring leaves no stone unturned, affecting entities of all sizes - from minor publications and agencies to major departments, and even ministries and parliamentary committees.

Proposed cuts are staggering: The Government will see five ministries and two subordinate agencies dissolved, while the National Assembly will eliminate four committees.

While exact figures on personnel reductions and financial savings remain undetermined, the potential cost efficiencies are expected to be significant.

More importantly, these reforms aim to unlock the full potential of Vietnam's political system, clearing institutional bottlenecks and propelling the nation into its next era of development.

Visionary leadership

This revolution is not merely an organizational overhaul - it reflects the strategic foresight and determination of Vietnam’s top leadership.

The 13th Party Central Committee and the Politburo, led by General Secretary To Lam, have demonstrated exceptional cohesion and vision.

History shows that at pivotal moments, nations produce leaders capable of navigating challenges and driving transformation.

In this case, To Lam’s leadership has galvanized collective resolve within the Party’s highest ranks, enabling the formulation of a far-reaching strategy in record time.

His ability to communicate this vision to Party members and the broader public has fostered widespread consensus - a critical ingredient for the success of this revolution.

The determination and intellect of Vietnam’s top leader, combined with the collective will of the Central Committee, provide a solid foundation for this historic endeavor.

With a unified approach and an unwavering commitment to reform, this revolution has the potential to redefine governance in Vietnam, ensuring it is fit for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.

Dr. Dinh Duy Hoa