Future challenges for the country include how to continue economic liberalization and societal opening while maintaining stability and a relatively low level of inequality. Although subsequent waves have been harder to control, Vietnam’s economy has continued to grow at the highest rate in Southeast Asia. The Vietnamese government won international recognition for its strict handling of the COVID-19 pandemic in its early stages. Human rights remain a contentious issue in the U.S.-Vietnam relationship however, both President Obama and President Trump assured Vietnamese leaders in the past that the United States respects Vietnam’s differing political system. Vietnam’s vibrant civil society and social media face increasing restrictions affecting both informal actors (such as bloggers) and legally registered nongovernmental organizations (NGOs). Freedom of expression, opinion and speech are guaranteed in the constitution but not properly implemented in practice. The People’s Army of Vietnam has significant influence in the political system.
Politically, Vietnam is a one-party state ruled by the Communist Party. Vietnam’s policy of multiple partnerships has remained intact despite maritime security challenges in the East (South China) Sea and disputes over management of the Mekong River. The United States and Vietnam agreed on a “comprehensive partnership” in 2013 that is strategic in all but name, including cooperation on economic, security, educational, cultural and war legacy issues. Vietnam’s foreign policy aims to act as a “friend and reliable partner of all countries in the international community.” Vietnam has established strategic partnerships with Japan, China, India, Russia and other countries. Since joining ASEAN in 1997, Vietnam has played a significant role in regional diplomacy and development. Once one of the world’s poorest and most isolated countries, Vietnam is now a middle-income country with a dynamic, young population and a promising future. Nearly 50 years since the end of the Vietnam War, and more than a quarter century since the normalization of U.S.-Vietnam relations, Vietnam is emerging as a rising power at the heart of the Indo-Pacific region and an increasingly important U.S.
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