Qualifications, capacity of vietnamese commune-level civil servants

Abstract

In Vietnam, local government consists of three levels: provincial, district, and commune-level. The commune-level government is the lowest level, acting as an apparatus that directly implements the State’s policies and laws to the people. Therefore, the work results of commune-level civil servants play an important role, affirming the effectiveness of management activities and the prestige of government agencies. However, the process of performing the duties of commune-level civil servants is affected by many factors, affecting their work results and managers need to pay attention to take appropriate measures to promote their forte of civil servants. This study mentions two main factors affecting the work results of commune-level civil servants: qualifications and working capacity of civil servants. The author conducted a survey of 250 leaders of commune-level government agencies in 3 provinces representing 3 regions of Vietnam: Bac Ninh province (North region), Ha Tinh province (Central region), Bac Lieu province (Southern region). Research results show that local leaders rate civil servants as meeting the requirements on qualifications and competence according to title standards, but underestimate the practical capacity of commune-level civil servants. From the results of this study, the author suggests appropriate policy issues for localities to promote the capacity of commune-level civil servants to serve the civil service.