Vietnam's Local Governance Reform: Improved Citizen Services and Land Dispute Resolution

One year after the implementation of a new administrative model in Vietnam's central Quang Tri province, it is evident that the reform is contributing to improved citizen services. This reform has empowered local communes (xã) to directly handle many matters previously under the jurisdiction of districts. This has enabled citizens and businesses to complete administrative procedures more swiftly, facilitating smoother local governance and direction. The objective is to foster a 'close to the people, for the people' administration, with a shift towards development-oriented governance. For instance, in Kim Phu commune, Mr. Hoang Duc Vu, formerly a district official, now manages land issues as well as mineral and forestry resources. He dedicates his days to citizen interactions and field surveys, and his evenings to processing administrative documents at home. These efforts have resolved numerous land-related concerns, enhancing citizen satisfaction. In Hat village, a long-standing land registration issue, complicated by road planning, was addressed by the newly established Kim Phu commune administration. Residents express hope that with a more accessible administration, previously intractable problems can now be resolved. Furthermore, in Dong Hoi ward, land acquisition for the crucial Nhat Le 3 bridge project was settled through persistent dialogue and understanding with residents. Despite initial reluctance from some households to relocate, the administration's sustained negotiations led to unanimous agreement, preventing project delays. In Bac Giang ward, a land dispute spanning over two decades was resolved through mediation that considered the practical living conditions of the local residents. This resulted in the division and registration of land, concluding a long-standing issue. These examples demonstrate that the decentralization of authority to local administrations is strengthening the system's ability to respond promptly and effectively to citizen needs.