The Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Politics, in coordination with the Nordic Embassies in Hanoi (Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden), ơn March 18 organized the 9th Annual Nordic Seminar under the theme: “Successful implementation of decentralization in the digital era - Sharing experience between Vietnam and the Nordic Countries”.
Speaking at the seminar, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Le Hai Binh, Member of the Party Central Committee and Permanent Vice President of the Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Politics, noted that Vietnam’s ongoing reform, which focuses on streamlining its organizational structure, administrative apparatus, and institutions, as well as transitioning from a four-tier administrative system to a three-tier system with a two-level local government model, has delivered significant progress in decentralization in recent years.
“This momentum has been strongly driven by the national digital transformation process, which is laying critical foundations for shifting mindsets, modernizing governance methods, improving public sector performance, and fostering greater citizen participation and co-creation in the development process”, he emphasized.
Mr. Binh also expressed confidence that the seminar would provide valuable scientific and practical references for further institutional reform and governance practices in Vietnam, as well as for training, research, and policy advisory work at the Academy and nationwide. It would also help strengthen and deepen the traditional friendship and cooperation between Vietnam and the Nordic countries.
The Nordic countries consistently rank among the world’s top performers in welfare provision, digital transformation, and public administration. Their governance models are widely recognized for combining universal social protection, advanced digital public services, and high levels of transparency and public trust.
Norwegian Ambassador H.E. Hilde Solbakken said that decentralization in the digital era is not merely about transferring authority, but about enhancing public trust, accountability, and service delivery. The Nordic experience shows that digital tools, when combined with clearly defined institutional roles and sound fiscal frameworks, can empower local governments while maintaining national coherence.
“At the same time, digital solutions must be user-friendly, accessible, and inclusive, designed not only for the digitally proficient, but also for citizens with limited digital literacy. We are pleased to share our experience and support Vietnam’s reform and digital transformation journey”, H.E. Hilde Solbakken added.
Swedish Ambassador to Vietnam H.E. Johan Ndisi likewise noted that in Sweden, decentralization paired with digital transparency does not weaken oversight, but rather enhances precision and effectiveness in public administration. By equipping local governments with digital tools and granting them autonomy in managing budgets and services, authorities can both improve service delivery and stimulate grassroots innovation.
H.E. Johan Ndisi also emphasized that countries can learn from one another not only from successful models of decentralization, but also from the challenges and lessons learned along the way. “Through this dialogue with Vietnam, we are also learning. Vietnam has been remarkably swift in certain reforms, moving at a pace that in some cases took much longer in our own countries”, H.E. Johan Ndisi remarked.
Similarly, Finnish Ambassador to Vietnam H.E. Pekka Voutilainen highlighted that one of Finland’s key lessons is sustained investment in education to build digital capacity, alongside inclusive policymaking and evidence-based governance.
As a result, digital tools have enhanced public participation, responsiveness, and social cohesion. By combining technology with trust-based governance and a strong education system, Finland demonstrates how digital transformation can reinforce democratic institutions and make public governance more adaptive in a rapidly changing environment.
“We also recognize the vital role of the business community in driving digital innovation. Finland stands ready to connect its technology companies with Vietnamese partners to further advance digital tools in support of Vietnam’s governance efforts”, H.E. Pekka Voutilainen affirmed.
Moreover, Danish Ambassador to Vietnam H.E. Nicolai Prytz shared that broadening the tax base is not only about increasing revenue, but also about promoting fairness, transparency, and strengthening trust between citizens, businesses, and the State.
“Denmark demonstrates that a transparent, equitable, and citizen-centered tax system can operate effectively, supported by the robust and flexible application of digital tools. Ensuring that these digital solutions are user-friendly is key to enabling taxpayers to comply with their obligations with ease”, H.E. Nicolai Prytz said.
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