Digital Governance Enhances Public Services in Vietnamese Border Commune

A year after the adoption of the two-tier local administration model, Bu Gia Map, a remote border commune in the southern city of Dong Nai, has experienced notable improvements in public administration. This digital transformation initiative has made public services more accessible to residents, particularly benefiting the commune's significant ethnic minority community, and has boosted governance efficiency. Previously, Bu Gia Map's geographical isolation presented challenges, with traditional administrative procedures acting as a barrier for many residents, especially those with lower digital literacy. The shift to digital governance has enabled online applications, information dissemination, and the tracking of administrative procedures, significantly enhancing convenience. This effort is part of Vietnam's broader digital transformation strategy, a key national policy pursued under the country's one-party system. The government views the digitalization of public services as a foundational step in developing the digital economy, which is seen as a new engine for economic growth. A core objective is to bridge the digital divide in rural and remote areas, ensuring all citizens can benefit from public services. Furthermore, Vietnam's pursuit of economic growth and national stability, often navigating complex relations with China, sees enhanced digital governance as crucial. Beyond improving domestic administrative efficiency, this digitalization could influence external relations in the future, particularly concerning international digital infrastructure integration and data security. The success in Bu Gia Map serves as a promising example of the potential for digital transformation across wider regions of Vietnam.