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The successful implementation of information technology and digital transformation across all functions of the National Assembly (NA) has garnered positive feedback from both legislators and the public. This will serve as the foundation to develop an electronic parliament, which will lead to the creation of a digital parliament.
E-parliament places its emphasis not only on information technology to digitise processes and procedures but also on human resources, infrastructure, and database management. It targets creating an environment that facilitates and boosts the NA’s engagement with voters and the public through online spaces. This will allow the NA to better represent the public and will bolster legislators’ sense of accountability.
During the third session of the steering committee for building and implementing the e-parliament project, Vice Chairman of the National Assembly, Nguyen Duc Hai, emphasised that the immediate priority is to finalise the drafting of the e-parliament project. Based on this, key objectives will be outlined to develop an e-parliament and, subsequently, a digital parliament.
The draft project has been crafted after considering global and domestic digital transformation trends. Furthermore, it has been supplemented with implementation measures, including an emphasis on encouraging leaders of various agencies and localities to play an active role in the transformation process.
Attendees at the session noted that to establish an e-parliament, it is necessary to undertake a comprehensive review and revision of relevant regulations to create a conducive environment. The development of an e-parliament should occur concurrently with the creation of an e-government and digital government as part of the national digital transformation programme. They pointed out the importance of choosing appropriate technologies for the mission to avoid a situation where certain aspects of the project become technologically obsolete shortly after its launch.
Vice Chairman Hai acknowledged that this is a substantial project that demands responsible collaboration from all stakeholders. He urged the Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC) to provide official feedback on the draft, while instructing the NA Office to choose a consulting unit in line with regulations, ensuring preparedness for project implementation as soon as it is initiated.
In 2020, Vietnam kicked off a national digital transformation programme, under which the country would renovate the management and administration activities of the government, the production and business activities of enterprises, and the overall way of living and working. It is working to develop a safe, humane, and wide digital environment. The national digital transformation programme has the dual purpose of both developing the digital government and economy and establishing Vietnamese digital businesses with a global capacity.
The country has made rapid progress in digital development. With a population of 98.5 million, it has a significant advantage in terms of market scale. 85% of the population owns smartphones and 79% have internet access. Furthermore, Vietnam’s population has a young demographic structure, with a majority falling within the age ranges of 25-44 and 5-12. This represents a cohort of digital citizens who will contribute to a thriving data market in the future.
Vietnam has made 2023 the year dedicated to National Digital Data, recognising the role of data as a driving force for economic transformation and improved government and management capabilities. According to MIC, instead of going fast, Vietnam has chosen to go smart with open data and artificial intelligence (AI), so that institutions, enterprises, and individuals can join forces to create new values in the digital age.