Vietnam issues guidance on support for redundant village officials amid reforms

Vietnam's Ministry of Home Affairs has provided clear guidelines for addressing the situation of non-specialized officials in villages and residential areas who may lose their jobs as part of administrative reforms. The directive, issued via Official Letter No. 7617 on July 17, aims to ensure a fair process for these individuals.

According to the ministry's guidance, three specific roles are identified as potentially redundant: the village party secretary, the village chief or head of the residential area, and the head of the Fatherland Front committee. The number of surplus personnel will be determined by comparing the current number of officials with the authorized quota, which is capped at three per village or residential area under current regulations.

Local authorities are instructed to calculate the number of surplus officials based on the specific restructuring plans approved by competent authorities. The ministry emphasizes that the number of individuals receiving severance or support must not exceed the calculated surplus. This measure is intended to manage the workforce adjustments efficiently and transparently.

Furthermore, the ministry has outlined provisions for funding the severance packages for those who are let go. For cases where local authorities initiate restructuring outside the scope of Government Decree No. 154/2025/ND-CP, funding will be managed according to the guidelines in Official Letter No. 7031/2026. All provinces and cities are required to submit their reports on the implementation of these policies and the overall situation regarding surplus non-specialized officials to the Ministry of Home Affairs by July 30.