On July 1, 2025, the two-tier local government model comprising provincial and commune levels was officially put into operation nationwide. Reform not only marked an important continuation of Resolution 18 but also translated breakthrough orientations in administrative reform into reality, becoming a historic milestone in the most comprehensive, far-reaching and decisive restructuring process ever undertaken.

After one year of implementation, model has generated strong momentum for transformative changes while driving a significant shift in governance thinking. Intermediate layers have been streamlined, decentralisation as well as delegation of authority strengthened to enhance grassroots initiative, while administrative governance has gradually shifted from a “control-oriented administration” towards a “service-oriented administration”. By placing people and development efficiency at centre of reform agenda, model has established an important foundation for Vietnam to confidently enter a new era of development combined with national advancement.

Deputy Prime Minister, comrade Ho Quoc Dung, together with leaders of Dak Lak Province, inspecting local government model operation at Ea Bung Commune Public Administrative Service Centre.

Proactive, decisive and synchronous implementation from grassroots level

Following merger with Phu Yen Province on July 1, 2025, Dak Lak entered a broader development space spanning 18,096.40sq.km, ranking third nationwide in area, with a population exceeding 3.3 million people and 45 ethnic groups living together. Province currently comprises 102 commune-level administrative units with 2,801 villages, hamlets, residential groups along with neighbourhoods. Vast territory, long geographical distances and still-limited infrastructure have posed considerable challenges for operation of two-tier local government model, particularly as workload at grassroots level has sharply increased in areas such as land management, construction, population administration as well as settlement of administrative procedures.

Against this backdrop, province has proactively alongside decisively implemented synchronised solutions to ensure smooth and effective operation of new apparatus. Provincial Party Committee, People’s Council and People’s Committee swiftly introduced plans, roadmaps alongside restructuring schemes for organisational apparatus; accelerated decentralisation together with delegation of authority; consolidated contingent of officials and civil servants; while strengthening administrative reform combined with digital transformation to improve quality of public services from grassroots level onward.

Numerous working groups led by provincial leaders alongside departments and agencies were established, directly travelling to localities to inspect implementation, provide guidance as well as resolve difficulties. Communication and public awareness campaigns were also widely deployed, helping create consensus in both understanding together with public support.

Thanks to decisive leadership and flexible implementation, organisational apparatus following restructuring has gradually been consolidated towards leaner operations with clearer functions coupled with responsibilities, while coordination mechanisms among sectors and administrative levels have become increasingly effective. Settlement of administrative procedures has continued showing positive progress, with on-time processing rate reaching 97% as of April 8, 2026. Many online public services have also been effectively deployed, contributing to improved service quality for residents along with businesses alike.

During inspection visit examining operation of two-tier local government model in border commune of Ea Bung, Deputy Prime Minister, comrade Ho Quoc Dung acknowledged and highly appreciated proactive as well as decisive efforts made by Dak Lak in implementing new model, ensuring uninterrupted and effective public services while creating foundation for improving efficiency combined with effectiveness of State administration and promoting local socio-eco development during new period.

Translated by HAI LOAN