Locations
Ha Noi, 18 March 2025 – Several central and local government agencies in Viet Nam have begun applying Artificial Intelligence (AI) in public administration and service delivery. Notable examples include virtual assistants in public administration, facial recognition software for public security, and intelligent traffic monitoring systems. However, significant gaps remain to ensure the sustainable and effective development of AI in the public sector.
These findings were shared at the thematic seminar "Artificial Intelligence Landscape Assessment (AILA) in the Public Sector in Viet Nam," co-organized by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Institute for Policy Studies and Media Development (IPS). The event provided an in-depth assessment of the current AI landscape, strategic directions, and application status in the public sector, while offering policy recommendations to fully leverage AI's potential.
Photo: UNDP Viet Nam
Key Challenges
In the seminar, experts emphasized the critical role of data and infrastructure in effective AI application. Currently, limited data sharing and connectivity between government agencies hinder large-scale AI solutions. While the public sector holds vast datasets, they are fragmented and lack integration. Policies promoting open data, simplify administrative procedures related to data, and invest in computing infrastructure and data centers for AI are essential.
Moreover, limited human resources and technological capacity are significant challenges. The number of AI experts in the public sector is small, leading to heavy reliance on the private sector. To effectively apply AI, government agencies must enhance the skills of civil servants, leverage private-sector expertise, and foster collaboration between stakeholders in AI development.
In addition, unclear policies and mechanisms pose major obstacles. Although Viet Nam has an AI strategy, the legal framework and technical standards are incomplete, especially in data management and AI ethics.
Financial challenges are also notable, as AI implementation requires substantial resources, but the state budget is limited, and financial mechanisms are inadequate, making investment in AI applications difficult.
“Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming how we live, work, and govern. It offers remarkable opportunities—but only if we choose to use it responsibly,” said UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in Viet Nam, Mr. Patrick Haverman. “As highlighted in this AI Landscape Assessment (AILA), Viet Nam stands at a pivotal moment. With the right strategy, investments, and ethics in place, AI can be a powerful accelerator of national development and human progress”.
Key Recommendations
Enhance digital technology capacity in government agencies by investing in data, data infrastructure, and high-performance computing systems for AI, while strengthening human resource training for AI development and operation.
Establish a clear legal framework and mechanisms, including regulations on accountability, ethical standards, risk management, and data privacy protection.
Foster public-private partnerships to encourage technology companies and research institutions to develop AI products and solutions for the public sector.
Promote open data and data Governance, creating a highly connected system among government agencies and partners.
Focus on ethical AI and risk management through monitoring systems, impact assessments, and ensuring transparency, fairness, and privacy protection.
Viet Nam needs to adopt AI selectively, practically, and in line with real conditions and specific needs in the public sector, avoiding the trend of blindly following technology to ensure real effectiveness and public benefit.
Options for AI Development
Narrow, sector-specific AI: Cost-effective, leverages existing data, easy to control, and delivers immediate results.
Basic AI research and large model development (like LLM): Deep research to master core technology but requires substantial financial resources and advanced computing infrastructure.
Implementation Roadmap
Step 1. Identify the right problem: Clarify needs and prioritize AI applications that fit each agency's reality.
Step 2. Experiment and refine: Test AI solutions in a controlled environment and adjust based on real-world feedback.
Step 3. Scale up and collaborate: Expand implementation after proving effectiveness, establish a legal framework, and promote public-private and international partnerships to enhance AI resources and expertise.
Mr. Nguyen Quang Dong, Director of the Institute for Policy Studies and Media Development (IPS) affirmed that AI applications in Vietnam's public sector hold great potential, particularly in enhancing policymaking capabilities, improving work efficiency, and advancing public service delivery. “Therefore, each agency must unlock this potential by clearly identifying its specific challenges to select the appropriate AI technology while also assessing its internal readiness to develop an effective implementation roadmap.”
For more information, please contact:
Nguyen Viet Lan, Communication Officer, United Nations Development Programme
Phone: 0914436769; email: nguyen.viet.lan@undp.org
Tran Anh Tho, Communication Assisstant, Institute for Policy Studies and Media Development
Phone: 0348570346; email: thota@ips.org.vn