Significant improvement in Vietnam’s Human development index
The latest Global Human Development Report released by the UNDP on March 13 underscores Vietnam’s notable progress in human development. Over the past three decades, Vietnam’s Human Development Index (HDI) has shown a consistent upward trajectory, a testament to the efficacy of the country’s policies under the leadership of the Vietnamese Party and State.
The HDI, initiated by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in 1990, serves as a comprehensive measure of a nation’s socio-economic development. Vietnam’s remarkable journey saw its HDI climb from 0.493 in 1990 to 0.726 in 2022. Once placed at the lower end of the scale upon the Index’s inception, Vietnam has significantly ascended in the global rankings, currently occupying the 107th position out of 193 countries and territories.
Vietnam’s robust economic performance, even amidst the challenges posed by the pandemic, played a pivotal role in elevating its human development ranking. Key indicators such as educational attainment and life expectancy have seen marked improvements, notably in secondary school enrollment rates and healthcare outcomes.
Pauline Tamesis, the UNDP Resident Coordinator in Vietnam, lauded the country’s strides in economic growth, poverty reduction, and social advancement. She highlighted Vietnam’s recognition as one of the highest-ranking countries in human development since 2019, accompanied by significant reductions in multidimensional poverty and enhancements in healthcare coverage and life expectancy.
The Communist Party of Vietnam has consistently prioritized human development in its national development strategy. Central to the Party’s vision is the promotion of the human element, ensuring social justice, and harmonizing economic progress with societal advancement. This commitment is reflected in policies that prioritize the well-being and aspirations of the people, aiming to enhance their material and cultural lives.
As articulated in the documents of the 13th National Party Congress in 2021, the Vietnamese leadership reaffirms the centrality of the people in all facets of innovation, national development, and defense. Policies and initiatives are guided by the imperative to ensure the happiness and prosperity of the populace.
Vietnam’s commitment to inclusive development, as encapsulated in the “leaving no one behind” principle, encompasses access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and social protection, alongside initiatives for sustainable energy, biodiversity preservation, and digital transformation. The UN remains committed to supporting Vietnam’s endeavors, including the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The concerted efforts of the Vietnamese Party and State in prioritizing people-centric approaches have yielded significant dividends, evident in the remarkable improvement of Vietnam’s human development index, earning international recognition for its achievements.
