The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism has officially issued a Code of Cultural Conduct in the Digital Environment, aimed at guiding responsible online behavior and promoting a healthier digital ecosystem.

The new framework represents an important step toward shaping how organizations and individuals engage in online activities in accordance with Vietnam’s cultural norms, ethical standards and legal regulations.

The code is expected to foster a safe and positive digital environment while spreading constructive values and reinforcing national cultural identity in the digital age. It replaces the earlier Code of Conduct on Social Media that had been in place since 2021.

The new guidelines apply broadly to five main groups: individuals; organizations and enterprises providing social media and digital platform services; Internet service providers; media, advertising and artistic institutions; and other agencies and organizations.

At its core, the framework seeks to enhance community responsibility, encourage transparency and strengthen coordination with authorities in monitoring and addressing violations in cyberspace.

The code outlines general principles requiring all users to comply with the law, respect the legitimate rights of others and uphold the country’s cultural traditions.

In particular, individuals are expected to take responsibility for their online actions and cooperate with authorities in handling inappropriate or illegal content. Cultural conduct in the digital environment is defined as communicating, creating and sharing information responsibly, respectfully and in line with social ethical norms.

For individual users, the code encourages the use of real names and greater caution when posting personal information about others, especially when it involves children’s data.

One notable provision concerns misinformation. When encountering false information, users are encouraged to notify the platform or relevant authorities. If they choose to post warnings about fake news, the content must include a clear visual marker - specifically a red diagonal strike-through symbol.

Online discussions and debates must also be conducted respectfully, avoiding vulgar language, incitement to violence or discrimination based on region or religion.

Stricter expectations for influencers

For influencers, the code sets higher standards.

These individuals are expected to act as role models in their lifestyles and actively promote content that brings positive social value. They are also prohibited from exploiting public trust for personal gain.

When posting advertisements or sponsored content, influencers must clearly disclose such partnerships and ensure that promotional information is truthful and complies with the law.

Digital platforms and service providers also bear significant responsibilities.

They are required to clearly publish their terms of use and proactively employ artificial intelligence and data analysis tools to detect and prevent scams and misinformation.

Platforms must also establish mechanisms to protect children, display warnings for inappropriate content and provide users with accessible reporting tools to flag violations.

The code further encourages companies to carefully consider whether to collaborate with individuals who have violated the law.

To ensure effective implementation, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism will be responsible for promoting the guidelines, monitoring compliance and recognizing individuals or organizations that make positive contributions to the digital community.

The ministry also plans to announce lists of influencers or community pages that violate the code so that media and advertising organizations can reconsider potential partnerships.

Authorities hope that close coordination among ministries, sectors and localities will help spark a broader transformation in digital culture and online behavior in Vietnam.

Tinh Le