Abstract

Since the Đổi Mới (Renovation) reforms in 1986, Vietnam’s religious policy has undergone a profound transformation, shifting from a post-war administrative control model to a governance-based approach grounded in rule of law, dialogue, and multi-actor coordination. This article aims to analyze the evolution of these policies during 1975–2025, identify the ideological, legal, and socio-economic drivers behind the transition from administrative control to religious governance, and evaluate key outcomes and remaining challenges. The study employs a historical–policy approach, combining qualitative document analysis of Party resolutions, legal instruments, and governmental reports with secondary data from scholarly works and official statistics. The analytical framework draws on governance theory, emphasizing legality, transparency, accountability, and participation across state and non-state actors. The findings indicate four major stages: (i) post-war administrative control (1975–1986); (ii) cognitive and methodological renovation in religious affairs (1986–2003); (iii) institutionalization through the 2004 Ordinance on Belief and Religion (2004–2015); and (iv) comprehensive legalization and gradual formation of a modern religious governance model following the 2016 Law on Belief and Religion (2016–2025). This trajectory has facilitated the expansion of religious freedom, strengthened the social role of religious organizations, and enhanced state governance capacity. However, challenges persist, including uneven local implementation, unresolved religious land issues, and risks of religious exploitation in the digital media environment. The article contributes a long-term case study of religious governance in a socialist, post-conflict, and internationally integrating context.