Promoting the spirit of community self-governance

As grassroots organizational restructuring is implemented, each village and residential neighborhood now has only a limited number of directly operating positions. In this context, fostering the spirit of self-governance among residents has become increasingly important. With larger villages and residential areas, growing populations, and wider administrative boundaries, the workload at the grassroots level has risen significantly. Relying solely on village officials makes it difficult to fully understand people’s aspirations and promptly address issues arising within the community. Community self-governance groups therefore serve as one of the most effective ways to promote the people’s role as active participants in local affairs.

Experience shows that where self-governance models operate effectively, public mobilization efforts are often more successful. Self-managed neighborhood groups, mediation teams, community security groups, and environmental protection teams not only help resolve local issues but also serve as important bridges between Party committees, local authorities, and the people. Through these groups, Party guidelines and State policies can be communicated more quickly, citizens’ concerns can be conveyed more promptly, and emerging conflicts within communities can be addressed at an early stage.

In the new development phase, strengthening community self-governance should focus on expanding public participation. Alongside village and residential-area officials, greater roles should be encouraged for Party members residing in local communities, reputable community figures, members of mass organizations, veterans, senior citizens, religious dignitaries, and other individuals committed to community affairs. Every citizen should be regarded not only as the recipient of public mobilization efforts but also as an active participant in carrying them out.

At the same time, Party committees and local authorities should establish support mechanisms to ensure that self-governance groups operate effectively rather than merely in form. Responsibilities should be assigned clearly, with specific duties, authority, and accountability. In addition, successful self-governance models and exemplary public mobilization initiatives should be recognized and replicated in a timely manner throughout local communities.

Thuy Chau