Democracy as a Goal and a Driving Force for Development: The Case Study of Vietnam

The article explores the complex interplay between democracy and development in Vietnam, a country with a unique historical and political context. Through document analysis, it examines the legal and political reforms implemented since the Doi Moi in 1986 to understand how democratic elements have contributed to Vietnam's socio-economic development. We argue that, despite existing challenges, the integration of democratic principles into Vietnam's development framework serves not only as an ultimate goal but also as a powerful catalyst for economic innovation, human development, and sustainable governance. The conclusion emphasizes that to maintain sustainable and inclusive development, Vietnam must continue its commitment to democratic values by improving governance mechanisms, expanding citizen participation, increasing transparency, and ensuring that development processes reflect the needs of the people. Only by deeply integrating these principles into its development strategy can Vietnam achieve long-term growth and stability.