DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION AND THE TRANSITION TO A TWO-TIER LOCAL GOVERNMENT MODEL IN VIETNAM TODAY

Author: Trịnh Thị Phượng

ABSTRACT

This article examines the relationship between digital transformation and Vietnam’s transition to a two-tier local government model. Drawing on relevant literature, policy documents, it identifies three strategic functions of digital transformation: enabling decentralization, maintaining continuity in public service delivery, and strengthening transparency and accountability. Survey findings indicate that 89% of commune-level officials can perform their work entirely on digital platforms, while 56.3% report delays in processing administrative dossiers due to unsynchronized and difficult-to-access data. Persistent barriers include uneven digital infrastructure, disparities in digital skills and access, data security risks, and inadequate institutional and coordination arrangements. The article proposes five interconnected priorities: establishing a unified national data architecture, strengthening grassroots officials’ digital capacity, aligning the legal framework with two-tier digital administration, ensuring reliable telecommunications infrastructure, and developing continuous monitoring and feedback mechanisms. It argues that effective implementation requires coordinated technological, institutional, and organizational change, with particular attention to equitable access to public services.

Keywords: digital transformation; two-tier local government; administrative reform; digital governance; public service

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