On the morning of August 13, the 7th International Conference on Vietnamese Studies, sub-theme 5, titled “Culture, Ethnicity, and Religion in Vietnam in the New Development Context,” was held at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities under Vietnam National University, Hanoi (VNU-USSH).

Opening the event, Professor Dr. Hoang Anh Tuan, Rector of USSH, emphasized the conference’s core direction: advancing research and training in Vietnamese studies, diplomacy and international cooperation, socio-economic development amid global change, national governance in the new era, and themes related to culture, ethnicity, religion, environment, sustainable development, education, human development, science-technology, innovation, and knowledge transfer.

As the lead institution for this sub-theme, USSH focused discussions on cultural identity, cultural exchange and transformation during integration, and contemporary issues such as social practices, family relationships, and marriage.

The sub-theme was divided into four panels: Culture, Ethnicity, Religion, and Contemporary Issues. Delegates reached a consensus that sustainable development strategies must harmonize the relationship between tradition and modernity, innovation and preservation.

Professor Tuan noted that the appeal of Vietnamese culture stems from its core values: patriotism, bravery, tolerance, and community spirit, all blended with a balance of tradition and modernity. The country's diverse cultural resources not only contribute to regional tourism and economic growth but also elevate Vietnam’s profile on the global stage. In today’s digital age, the cultural and creative industries hold immense potential for breakthrough development.

Regarding ethnicity, Vietnam is home to 54 ethnic groups, each with its unique identity, together creating a unified yet diverse national culture. Ethnic policies aim to ensure stability and sustainable development in ethnic minority regions while preserving cultural heritage.

As for religion, the current trend emphasizes social engagement, blending spiritual and everyday life, and promoting the role of religion in national development and protection.

The digital culture’s impact on contemporary art

At the conference, researcher Nguyen Thi Thu Trang from the Vietnam National Institute of Culture and Arts Studies analyzed the effects of digital culture on contemporary art. She argued that digital culture is not merely about technology but represents a new cultural form. Every aspect of the artistic ecosystem – from creation and distribution to audience engagement – is being redefined. Traditional art forms must adapt to new tools and aesthetics, while live-streamed performances, NFT art, and video art on social media are reshaping the creative landscape.

Dr. Dinh Thi Thanh Huyen from the Faculty of Anthropology and Religious Studies at USSH addressed the dilemma facing the quan ho folk singing heritage, which stands at a crossroads between faithful preservation and dynamic adaptation. She explained that cultural heritage naturally evolves over time, and in the case of quan ho, key elements such as ritual folk singing, community bonding traditions, yin-yang philosophy, and unaccompanied vocal techniques are gradually fading in favor of contemporary reinterpretations. A viable solution, she proposed, lies in combining ecological museums with community-based tourism to preserve traditional heritage while creating livelihood opportunities for local communities.

The conference served as a scholarly forum for Vietnamese and international researchers to share insights and propose solutions to harness cultural strength, foster national unity, and pursue sustainable development in the digital era.

Tinh Le