Vietnamese culture: A new pillar for sustainable development.
The draft Political Report of the 14th National Congress identifies culture not only as the foundation but also as a 'regulatory system' guiding the harmonious and sustainable development of the country.
The draft Political Report presented to the 14th National Party Congress introduced a new positioning, affirming: "Culture and people are the foundation, resources, intrinsic strength, and a great driving force and regulating system of sustainable social development." This is considered a significant step forward in development thinking, elevating culture from a spiritual foundation to a mechanism for operating, regulating, and guiding the entire national development process.
From the spiritual foundation to the strategic 'regulatory system'
Throughout history, culture has always been the soul of a nation. However, the position of culture in national development strategy has never been given as high a level as in this draft. While previously culture was primarily seen as a spiritual foundation, it has now been elevated to a new level: a regulating pillar, a "soft brake" that keeps development from deviating from a humane path, helping the country grow while preserving its identity.
This way of thinking is a continuous inheritance and development in the Party's line. From the Sixth Congress (1986) initiating reforms, to the Central Committee Resolution No. 5 of the Eighth Congress (1998) affirming that culture is "both a goal and a driving force," and through subsequent Congresses, the role of culture has been increasingly emphasized. In the draft for the Fourteenth Congress, this vision has been expanded, defining culture as a "regulatory system" for development.
A pivotal role in the economy, politics, and society.
The concept of a "regulatory system" reflects a profound understanding that culture is the mechanism for balance and direction. The economy creates wealth, politics creates mechanisms, while culture plays a mediating role, ensuring harmonious development between material and spiritual aspects, between interests and morality.
Culture in economics: Creating sustainable value
The relationship between culture and economics is becoming increasingly close. A cultured economy is one that respects ethics, prioritizes social responsibility, and strives for sustainable values. When businesses value culture, they not only produce goods but also create social value and trust, fundamental elements of a strong economy.
Culture in politics: Strengthening social trust
In politics, culture is the soul of power, creating legitimacy and vitality for the institution. A political system with a culture will listen to and respect the people, placing human interests above all else. Leadership culture, public service culture, and the culture of the rule of law contribute to a humane governance, strengthening social trust – the foundation for long-term stability.
Culture in social life: The thread that connects communities.
In society, culture is the "glue" that binds people together, celebrating beauty, upholding morality, and protecting justice. When culture becomes ingrained in thinking and behavior, society has the ability to self-regulate, becoming an "immune system" that helps people resist deviations and value crises in the context of globalization.
Vietnam's soft power and international standing.
In the context of international integration, culture is a soft power that helps Vietnam affirm its unique identity. Values such as compassion, harmony, and altruism have become spiritual "brands," helping the country assert its position in the international community. Culture is the "common language" of peace, the foundation for Vietnam's sustainable development in a volatile world.
Transforming awareness into concrete action.
For culture to truly play its role as a "regulatory system," translating awareness into action is crucial. It is necessary to continue improving institutions and policies to integrate culture into all development strategies, from urban planning and education to technology. Each project should be evaluated not only on its economic effectiveness but also on its socio-cultural value.
The State needs to invest heavily in high-quality cultural human resources and build a healthy cultural environment where positive values are celebrated. According to Associate Professor Bui Hoai Son, Standing Member of the National Assembly's Committee on Culture and Education, establishing a clear legal framework is essential, for example, "there must be a separate law on performing arts" to create a foundation for professional and sustainable development.
Identifying culture as a "regulatory system" demonstrates the Party's strategic vision, affirming that Vietnam's development must be based on the strength of its culture and people. When culture permeates all aspects of life, the country will have sufficient internal strength to enter an era of rapid, sustainable, and distinctive development.