In an interview with the Vietnam News Agency, Ms. Ramla Khalidi, Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Viet Nam, said a rapid assessment of public services delivery jointly conducted by UNDP and the Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Politics found broad public support for the streamlining of local government, with many respondents noting that removing the district tier facilitated interaction with authorities.
Satisfaction with routine administrative procedures was quite high, scoring 4.1 out of 5 points. 91% of respondents rated civil servants as professionally competent, and 94% were satisfied with the timeliness of administrative services.
Ms. Khalidi said one of Vietnam's greatest strengths is the commitment of local authorities and civil servants to maintaining service delivery during this period of drastic change. 60% of respondents said local authorities are now more accessible, administrative procedures are simpler, and concerns about corruption have eased.
The assessment suggests that the two-tier model has sped up decision-making, shortened administrative processes, and strengthened accountability at the local level, important elements of responsive, citizen-centered governance.
Ms. Khalidi said further improvement of administrative procedures, strengthening of the capacity of public officials, and refining of policies based on practical experience will be essential to ensuring that citizens fully benefit from the reforms.
