Representatives of the Nordic countries shared their experiences in advancing digital transformation in decentralization with Vietnam.

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.

Vneconomy -Phuong Nhi