Vietnam Shifts Anti-Corruption Focus from Post-Mortem to Prevention

At the 30th session of the Central Steering Committee for the Prevention and Control of Corruption, Waste, and Negativity (hereinafter referred to as the Central Steering Committee), a strategic shift in direction was instructed. This involves moving the focus from post-mortem handling to fundamental, early-stage, and long-distance prevention of issues. Emphasis was also placed on transitioning from resolving individual cases to institutional improvement and data-driven oversight. This strategic shift is an attempt to more effectively and sustainably curb corruption and waste, which are considered impediments to Vietnam's economic growth. While the Central Steering Committee has previously focused on anti-corruption measures, much of it centered on investigation and punishment after incidents occurred. However, the current directive clearly highlights the importance of nipping problems in the bud before they surface. Specifically, the directive calls for the improvement of legal systems, transparency in administrative procedures, and the strengthening of monitoring systems utilizing digital technology. The aim is to eliminate loopholes that could become breeding grounds for corruption and to utilize development resources without waste. Concrete measures to prevent waste are already underway, such as the reorganization and disposal of 71 surplus office buildings in Hanoi. This strategy can be interpreted as an effort to achieve both improved governance capacity under Vietnam's one-party system and sustainable economic growth. In its relationship with China, while there is high economic dependence, enhancing transparency and efficiency in domestic governance will also be crucial for gaining the trust of the international community.