Minister of Home Affairs Pham Thi Thanh Tra has directed relevant agencies to focus on preparing materials for the government to present at the upcoming ninth extraordinary session of the National Assembly.

Among the key items on the agenda is a resolution on approving the dismissal and appointment of certain government members.

Streamlining government structure and ensuring continuity

At a recent February meeting, Minister Tra emphasized the importance of advising the government on critical matters related to organizational restructuring.

The Ministry of Home Affairs is tasked with assisting the Central Steering Committee in reviewing Resolution No. 18, guiding ministries and government agencies in drafting decrees that define the functions, duties, powers, and organizational structures of various ministries, departments, and provincial-level administrative bodies.

A comprehensive restructuring plan must be finalized by February 10, 2025, to ensure a seamless transition before the new system takes effect on March 1, 2025.

Additionally, the minister stressed the need to streamline administrative structures, reduce staffing levels, and improve workforce quality across government agencies. Departments must draft operational guidelines for the newly merged entities, ensuring immediate functionality upon implementation.

Preparation for the National Assembly’s extraordinary session

Minister Tra called on agencies to carefully prepare materials for the ninth extraordinary session of the National Assembly, scheduled from February 12-18. The session will focus on restructuring the government, including:

A resolution on the composition of the government for the 15th National Assembly term

Resolutions on approving dismissals and appointments of government officials

The Ministry of Home Affairs has been assigned a pivotal role in advising the government on these matters, ensuring a smooth and legally compliant transition.

Leading the way in administrative reform
Minister Tra underscored the importance of setting an example in the ongoing administrative streamlining process, particularly in the merger of the Ministry of Labor, Invalids, and Social Affairs with the Ministry of Home Affairs. She stressed that this process must be transparent, democratic, and consensus-driven.

She also reassured civil servants that their rights and workplace culture will be respected during the transition. A new performance evaluation system will be implemented based on clear, objective, and measurable criteria to ensure fairness in staffing decisions.

Minister Tra emphasized a positive and cooperative spirit, stating:
"Our colleagues are ready and willing to embrace any task assigned in the national interest, without hesitation or reluctance."

Key government reforms in progress

Other major government initiatives include:

Mid-term review of administrative unit consolidation at district and commune levels for 2023–2025

Presentation to the National Assembly on salary reform, pension adjustments, and social benefits

Review of government staffing levels, with a targeted reduction of at least 20% in civil servants and public employees on the state payroll

These reforms aim to create a more efficient, responsive, and modernized government system aligned with Vietnam’s long-term development goals.

Thu Hang