Governing Religion in Vietnam (1986-2022): A Case Study of Ho Chi Minh City

Abstract: This study examines the transition from a “control” model to a “governance” model of religious policy in Vietnam over the period 1986-2022, highlighting key institutional milestones (1986, 2004, and 2016). Employing a qualitative and interdisciplinary approach that combines political science, sociology, and religious studies, the research is based on secondary sources-including Party documents, legal frameworks, government reports, and scholarly works-and applies content analysis and historical-comparative methods. Ho Chi Minh City serves as a case study, illustrating how multi-religious diversity and the complexity of religious activity have shaped local policy adaptation and governance practice. Findings reveal that institutional reforms have progressively institutionalized religious freedom while reflecting a pragmatic balance between political stability and religious expression. The case of Ho Chi Minh City demonstrates both the potential and the limitations of this governance shift, revealing administrative coordination challenges and the need for adaptability amid urban complexity. The study further suggests that Vietnam’s approach reflects efforts toward greater compatibility with international human rights norms, though this process remains gradual and selective. The paper concludes by discussing sustainability concerns under globalization, urbanization, and digital transformation, and proposes areas for further empirical research.