Journal of Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences
Coherence in Bilateral Trade Negotiation Discourse from a Cross-cultural Pragmatic Perspective: A Comparison between English and Vietnamese
In government-level negotiations, discourse not only conveys information but also reflects communication strategies and cultural values. This study analyzes cohesive and coherence devices in the discourse of the Vietnam-US bilateral trade negotiations (2015-2024) from the perspective of cross-cultural pragmatics. Based on the theoretical framework of Halliday & Hasan (1976) and Hofstede (2001), the study examined 30 official documents, including press releases and memoranda. The method combines qualitative coding and frequency statistics to identify how cohesive devices contribute to coherence and strengthen arguments. The results show that Vietnamese discourse prioritizes repetition, modal expressions, and soft connections to maintain collective face and goodwill. In contrast, English discourse favors causal structures, meta- discourse, and short sentences to increase transparency and argument effectiveness. This difference reflects the influence of power distance and collective/individual orientation in the two cultures. The study affirms the value of the intercultural pragmatic approach in analyzing government discourse, and suggests applications in negotiation training, improving translation and interpretation skills, and drafting diplomatic documents.
Copyright (c) 2025 Vietnam Social Sciences
Factors Affecting the Purchasing Decisions at Shopee of Generation Z in Hồ Chí Minh City
This study investigates some of the factors that affected purchasing decisions on Shopee marketplace of Generation Z in Hồ Chí Minh City which included: Customer Service Quality (SQ), Product Price (PP), Easiness of Use (ES), Online Customer Rating (OCR), and Electronic Word of Mouth (eWOM). The findings reveal that Gen Z in Hồ Chí Minh City primarily prioritize service quality satisfaction when purchasing goods in Shopee platform, then price, conveniences (speed and distance) while Electronic Word of Mouth has the weakest impact on Gen Z customer who often prefer to make decisions through personal exploration rather than relying on peer opinions, unless those opinions come from Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) or other influential figures. Personalized Customer Relationship Management software is suggested to customize promotion messages to each customer, being transparent and authentic, and an appropriate and effective pricing strategy is necessary to accelerate the purchasing decision process of Gen Z consumers.
From Migrant Group to Ethnic Minority Group: Internal Perspectives on the Formation of the Vietnamese Diaspora in the Czech Republic
Utilizing the statistical database of the Czech Republic (CR), Czech census data in 2011 and 2021, along with the participant observation method, this paper aims to indicate the formation and development of the Việt Xù diaspora in the CR from the 1950s until now. The influx of Vietnamese migrants began with labor agreements between two socialist countries, leading to an increase in their population and contributions to the local economy through retail trade, culinary and beauty services, transforming their status from migrants to the national minority. Vietnamese community continues to face challenges related to integration into mainstream Czech society, namely language difficulties and instances of racism. The younger generations are masters in the Czech language and cultural integration successfully though they face challenges in balancing their cultural heritage with the pressures of assimilation. Their experiences reflect broader themes of migration, assimilation and identity formation in contemporary society. The findings of this study hold significant implications for diaspora research.
Assessing Transfer of Land Use Rights in Industrial Park by Project Transfer Method
The issue of transfering land use rights in industrial parks by project transfer stipulated in the 2024 Land Law and the 2023 Real Estate Business Law is getting serious attentions. This is a popular form of transaction, contributing to eliminating incompetent investors and improving the efficiency of land use and developing industrial park infrastructure. The 2023 Law on Real Estate Business supplements the conditions for trading land use rights associated with technical infrastructure, creating a legal corridor for project transfer activities to take place transparently and under control. The 2024 Land Law has more clearly regulated the rights and obligations of industrial park land users, especially in the case of project transfer associated with land use rights. From findings of systematizing and comparing regulations, the article proposes a number of recommendations to enhance transparency, stability and control in transactions of transferring land use rights in industrial parks by project transfer method, contributing to perfecting the legal framework of land and real estate in the new period.
Teaching Vietnamese as a Heritage Language: Reality and Prospects
Vietnamese has a complex sociopolitical history that shaped its role both within Vietnam and across its diasporic communities. The literature review suggests that Vietnamese studies are getting more attention globally, however more studies should be done in the non-Western communities. The paper goes on presenting attempts in teaching Vietnamese as a heritage language from Western and Asian teaching contexts. Interactive, culturally meaningful activities may get higher motivation and better retention. These approaches also advance broader goals of identity and inclusion: students feel their bicultural background is an asset rather than a barrier. Cultural events play a key role in using Vietnamese to share stories and receive communal recognition. Vietnamese can be taught as a heritage language applying concrete, learner-centered strategies with supportive policies, personalizing content, stimulating multiple senses, and connecting students to the Vietnamese-speaking community to preserve linguistic skills and cultural pride. Textbooks and readers specifically designed for heritage learners should include bilingual glossaries, cultural notes, and illustrations that reflect the learners’ context.
Hồ Chí Minh and the Leaders and People of China during the Resistance War against the United States
This article provides a qualitative approach to critically examine the interplay of personal and strategic relationships between Hồ Chí Minh and critical leaders of the Chinese Communist Party, including Mao Zedong, Zhou Enlai, and Liu Shaoqi, throughout the resistance war against the United States (1954-1975). The primary data were collected from archival materials of the Communist Parties of Vietnam and China, including meeting minutes, diplomatic correspondence, and political reports related to military and political aid decisions. Additionally, memoirs of the leaders and international studies provide a more comprehensive perspective. The research findings highlight that the personal relationship between Hồ Chí Minh and Chinese leaders was instrumental in securing comprehensive support from China. This article provides novel insights by delving into the personal dimensions of international relations, an aspect often overlooked in previous studies that primarily focused on strategic and national policy levels. Furthermore, it offers a more holistic view of how these personal relationships significantly contributed to Vietnam’s success in the resistance war against the U.S.
Resilience in Practice: The Roles of Vietnamese Social Organizations in Pandemic Prevention
This paper investigates the resilience of Vietnamese social organizations through their roles and in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. While international literature highlights the crucial contribution of social organizations to public health crises, especially in the post-pandemic recovery phase, scientific analysis of Vietnamese counterpart’s has remained scarce. Drawing on empirical data of the situation of social organizations in Hanoi and Hồ Chí Minh City during and after the COVID-19, this article explores how these organizations participated in pandemic prevention, what internal and external resources they mobilized, and how they evaluated their own impact. By examining organisational characteristics such as type, operational scope, field of activity, human resources, funding sources, and relationships with the state, the paper provides a multi-dimensional view of social organizations’ engagement during the crisis. The analysis identifies key factors influencing the capacity of social organizations to adapt, maintain operations, and respond effectively under extreme pressure. In doing so, it contributes to a deeper understanding of the sector’s flexibility, responsiveness, and evolving role in pandemic governance in Vietnam.
Parent Care and Filial Support: Sharing between Adult Siblings in Some Localities in Vietnam
Drawing on a cultural approach, this article analyzes relationships among adult siblings in the provision of care and filial support for aging parents. The analysis is based on survey data from 931 married respondents aged 25 and older, with at least one sibling alive. The data were collected from six wards/communes across Ninh Bình (2020), Quảng Nam (2024), and An Giang (2024). The findings reveal that the eldest son(s) in general continue(s) to play a central role in caregiving and filial support for elder parents. However, other children also actively participate in this process, not merely out of obligation but as a means of maintaining emotional bonds and solidarity within the extended family. This indicates the continued relevance of traditional norms regarding sibling roles in parent care. Key factors that shape patterns of involvement in elder care include being the eldest son, being a son, and physical proximity to parents. Nonetheless, levels of satisfaction with current caregiving arrangements are relatively consistent across different social groups, suggesting a prevalence and stability around the shared nature of caregiving responsibilities among siblings. The study also identifies regional variations in patterns of division of parent care across the three distinct cultural regions of Vietnam.
Co-Creation as a Destination Marketing Strategy for Community-based Tourism in Mai Châu
This paper investigates co-creation as a marketing strategy for community-based tourism (CBT) in Mai Châu (now in Phú Thọ province), with particular attention to implementation mechanisms, experiential value enhancement, and sustainable development tools. A qualitative case study approach was adopted, drawing on secondary data, field observations, and analysis of user-generated content on social media. The findings identify three distinct forms of co-creation in Mai Châu: (1) participation in ethnic cultural performances, (2) personalized tour design, and (3) digital experience sharing. Based on these insights, the paper introduces a “three pillars-three stages” model (experience, content, communication) to strengthen marketing effectiveness and addresses the theoretical gap regarding co-creation in Vietnam’s ethnic minority regions. It also advances a new perspective on experiential tourism marketing by emphasizing mechanisms for sustainable local branding. The study concludes that Mai Châu can achieve brand repositioning, cultural dissemination, and sustainable development through coordinated collaboration among government, enterprises, and the community, supported by long-term policy measures.
A Critical Discourse Analysis of Gender Representation in English Textbooks
This study investigates gender representation in the LIFE (A2-B1) English textbook through the lens of Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA). Drawing on Fairclough’s three-dimensional model and Kress and van Leeuwen’s theory of visual grammar, the research examines how language and imagery construct gender roles and identities. The analysis reveals that while the textbook promotes global inclusivity, it reproduces traditional gender norms. Male characters dominate in frequency, agency, and professional status, whereas female characters are often depicted in relational or emotional roles. Subtle discursive strategies, such as evaluative language, transitivity patterns, and visual salience, further reinforce these asymmetries. Although the textbook includes isolated efforts to challenge stereotypes, these are inconsistent and rarely integrated into the broader discourse. The research identifies more nuanced forms of gender bias, which are embedded in the linguistic and visual construction of the textbook The study concludes that ELT materials must be approached critically and offer pedagogical recommendations to foster gender-sensitive and equitable language education.
The Formation, Institutional Structure and Integration of the Minh Hương Community (Minh Hương xã) in Hội An from the Mid-17th to the Mid-19th Centuries
This paper focuses on the formation, institutional structure, and integration of the Minh Hương community (Minh Hương xã) in Hội An from the mid -17th to the mid - 19th centuries. The study analyzes a number of issues, such as the wave of Chinese migrants from China to Hội An, especially during the political movements and uprisings of the anti- Qing movement to overthrow the Qing and restore the Ming. Given this situation, many Chinese refugees and Ming officials fled to Hội An, escaping the wars and disturbances in mainland China. They established the Chinese Minh Hương xã in Hội An trading port. The Minh Hương (明香) understood this term to mean “maintaining joss-sticks for the Ming dynasty,” but in 1827 the Vietnamese Court took it to mean the “Minh village” (明鄉) - the character for “village” (鄉) being a homophone of that for “joss-stick” (香). Hence, members of a Minh Hương village included Chinese men married to Vietnamese women, and their descendants. This paper also focuses on the institutional structure and organization of the Minh Hương xã, as well as its relations with local society and local government.
Empowering Ethnic Minority Women: Perceptions and Barriers in Digital Community-Based Ecotourism in Hữu Liên Commune, Lạng Sơn Province, Vietnam
Tourism is a key economic sector with significant potential to support the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This study examines the role of community-based ecotourism (CBE) in empowering ethnic minority women in Hữu Liên commune, Lạng Sơn province, Vietnam as a case study, with a focus on perceptions of CBE and barriers related to digital transformation. Data from interviews and focus groups indicate that while women are increasingly familiar with digital tools, their skills in digital marketing, content creation, and tourism planning remain underdeveloped. The study underscores the urgent need for short-term measures aligned with a long-term vision to address these gaps and support sustainable tourism development. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and development organizations seeking to enhance gender equality and empower women in the digital era, thereby contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goal 5.B.
The Revolutionary Spirit of the Guilin Vietnam School and Its Significance in Contemporary Vietnam - China Relations
From the 1950s to the 1970s, in support of Vietnam’s resistance against French and American forces and to advance its national education development, the Chinese and Vietnamese governments jointly established Vietnam schools in Guangxi and Jiangxi, China. These institutions were dedicated to training revolutionary successors and nation- building talents for Vietnam. Adopting a fully enclosed management model and a patriotic education philosophy, the schools cultivated a revolutionary spirit characterized by independence, self-reliance, patriotism, unity, and progress. This spirit not only became a lifelong source of strength for Vietnamese students but they also continue to play a vital role in contemporary Vietnam-China relations by reinforcing traditional friendship and sustaining bilateral cooperation. In the future, deepening comprehensive exchange and cooperation between Vietnam and China is an inevitable trend. The revolutionary spirit forged by the previous generation of revolutionaries from both countries will continue to serve as a guiding star in the development of future China-Vietnam relations.
A Specific-gender Analysis of Childcare Provision in Vietnam and Policy Implications
Vietnam has the diversification of ethnicity and subcultures and shows a complex modernization. Child care responsibilities have shifted away from the family to the provision of daycare services in order to mobilize women into the labor force. Referring to national statistics on care provision and the brand-new Vietnam national survey on gender equality 2024, this paper aims to unpick structural and gender roles in the provision and typologies of child care in contemporary Vietnam. The paper first analyzes the development of child care policies and provisions under the forces of the transition from a centrally planned economy to a socialist market-oriented one, which has transformed the political economy of family life, and exposed Vietnamese people to liberal and individualistic western family values. Secondly, the paper emphasizes the role of gender and cultural influences on family ties under the umbrella of state policies to develop emerging child care issues for policy implications. In particular, how child care is divided at both family and social levels in the context of changing family functions, changing values attached to children, increasing living standards, high rates of migration, lower fertility, gender dynamics generating new family structures, and limited maternity cover.
Realism, a longstanding and highly influential theory in the study of International Relations (IRs) and foreign policy formulation, provides a robust framework for explaining, predicting, and addressing various global issues. Given its significance, examining Realism’s perspective on small states has become increasingly essential, especially as these states grow in number and influence within the international system. This research engages with the core tenets of Realist thought to elucidate its views on small states. Key aspects under consideration include the role of these states as IR actors, their power, their structural position within the international system, the impact of an anarchic global environment on them, and the security policies they adopt. Additionally, the analysis explores Realism’s theoretical and practical limitations in understanding small states and the influence of international institutions on their behavior. Building on this theoretical foundation, the study provides a critical assessment of how Realism conceptualizes small states while highlighting the shortcomings in explaining their behaviors and agency as distinct actors in global affairs.
The Strategic Vision and Policies of the Nguyễn Lords and Early Nguyễn Dynasty Rulers Regarding Vietnam’s Southwestern Sea
The Southwestern Sea has been one of the essential economic and cultural centers of Vietnam, possessing vast and diverse natural resources. Inheriting the legacy of the Nguyễn Lords, successive Nguyễn emperors since Gia Long established effective governance institutions to manage the seascape, extract minerals, and expand dynastic influence in the area. This article analyzes the objectives and policies enacted by the dynasty regarding this region, examining both their direct and long-term impacts, especially those on Vietnamese sovereignty and socio-economic development in Southern Vietnam, the southernmost part once known as Cochinchina. Thanks to the diverse, prosperous ecosystem of this area as well as the Southwestern Sea and islands, the rapid development of the coastal area is facilitated. Nguyễn Lords and successive Nguyễn emperors paid special attention to the establishment and exercise of sovereignty over maritime spaces to foster economic and social activities formed the essential foundation for the emergence of many inter-regional ports and economic centers. Today, the Southwestern Sea continuously fosters Vietnam’s strategy of blue economy and sustainable development.
The Spread and Cultural Influence of Đông Sơn Bronze Drums in Southern Vietnam and Southeast Asia
This study aims to analyze the presence and dissemination of Đông Sơn bronze drums beyond their traditional cultural sphere. By analyzing 159 Đông Sơn-type bronze drums discovered in southern Vietnam and Southeast Asia, we created distribution maps, identified key characteristics, and reconstructed their diffusion routes. The study also suggests a multi-centered system of production-distribution-consumption of bronze drums, hypothesizes the relative chronology of diffusion waves, and identifies the driving forces behind the spread of towards Southern Southeast Asia. Đông Sơn bronze drums have helped affirm the unity in diversity of Southeast Asia while serving as evidence of the cultural exchange, integration, and creativity of the region’s communities, which is good for safeguarding regional cultural heritage and affirming Đông Sơn culture’s significance within Southeast Asia. The findings highlight the extensive influence of the Đông Sơn culture, which transformed bronze drums into a shared cultural- civilizational heritage, reinforcing the ‘unity in diversity’ of Southeast Asia.
The Effects of Watching English Movies with Vietnamese Subtitles on Vocabulary Learning: An Empirical Study at Thủ Dầu Một University
English movies offer learners of the English language not only entertainment but also valuable knowledge. It is believed that when they watch English movies with subtitles, they find the experience enjoyable and engaging, which also improves their vocabulary. This study aims to examine the impact of watching English movies with Vietnamese subtitles on the vocabulary acquisition of second-year English majors at Thủ Dầu Một University (TDMU), Vietnam, as well as their attitudes toward using such movies for vocabulary learning and the development of other language skills. The participants in the study consisted of 130 second-year English majors at TDMU. The researcher employed a mixed-method approach to collect data through questionnaires, controlled experiments, tests (pre-tests and post-tests), and interviews with the students. The results indicate that the survey participants regarded watching English movies with Vietnamese subtitles as an effective English language learning tool, and this approach significantly improved their ability to retain English vocabulary. The study provides insights into the potential of using English movies with Vietnamese subtitles as a resource for learning English vocabulary and enhancing other language skills. Based on the study’s findings, the authors offer a number of practical recommendations to assist students in learning vocabulary effectively.
Assessing English Performance of Students in the Context of AI: A Case Study in Hanoi
This study examines the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on English language performance among students in Hanoi, Vietnam. Conducted in the second half of 2024, the research employed a mixed-methods approach. The results show that AI-assisted learning helped students enhance their vocabulary more effectively than traditional methods. AI tools were particularly effective in introducing new words and reinforcing their usage, and achieved a more consistent performance among students in the experimental group. The students generally viewed AI as an effective and engaging tool for language learning. Insights from this research can contribute to understanding AI’s role in enhancing English language proficiency and suggest strategies for integrating technology into educational practices. While some students found AI interactions engaging, they did not fully equate them to real-life social situations. The interaction and content engagement highlights AI’s potential to create an enjoyable learning experience in the context that human interaction remains a key component in language learning, whilst AI may not fully replace traditional classroom or peer-based learning environments.
The Effects of Flipped Classroom on Learners’ Autonomy: A Case Study in a Vietnam University
This study aims to explore the relationship between the flipped classroom, nowadays a widely used teaching method in various educational settings, and learner autonomy in English language classrooms. To fulfill the research objectives, the study adopts the qualitative method approach using action research carried out in six Business English classes at Thuongmai University and in-depth interviews with six teachers in the form of focus groups and 20 students in individual interviews. Research findings indicate that by flipping the learning procedure, asking students to approach knowledge on their own by studying videos and referring to learning material before attending classes, the flipped model contributes to raising all the five levels in the autonomy model suggested by Nunan (1997), which are awareness, involvement, intervention, creation and transcendence. Therefore, this teaching method should be promoted to improve leaner autonomy, which is believed to enhance English proficiency. Some implications have been highlighted to teachers, students and education administrators so that this method can be applied more effectively in English language classrooms.
Situation and Factors Affecting Awareness of Fire Prevention and Rescue Measures among Students: A Case Study in Hanoi
Recent fires and explosions in Vietnam have resulted in significant physical and psychological damage, undermining both safety and social security. This study, conducted during the first semester of the 2024-2025 academic year, analyzes data collected from questionnaires completed by 352 students at a university in Hanoi. The objective was to identify factors influencing students’ awareness of fire prevention and rescue skills. The findings reveal that a relatively small number of students possess adequate awareness and practical ability to take appropriate action in the event of a fire. Notably, they are initially unaware of how to use fire prevention and firefighting equipment (13.9%), about the evacuation procedures in the event of a fire (8.5%), and basic first aid for injuries (16.5%). Key factors influencing students’ awareness include limited exposure to fire prevention skills, with 55.7% of them reporting only occasional exposure and insufficient opportunities to engage in formal learning and practice, and 52.8% indicating limited opportunities for hands-on training. Based on these results, this study recommends enhancing the systematic delivery of fire prevention and rescue education, and extending the duration of practical fire drills to improve students’ preparedness and their response capabilities.
Bay of Tensions: Myanmar’s Unrest, Bangladesh's Struggles, and U.S. Naval Gambit in Indo-Pacific
This research provides a comprehensive examination of interconnected effects of Myanmar’s and Bangladesh’s internal crises on the strategic trajectories of India and China, as well as the implications of U.S. ambitions for a potential naval base on St. Martin’s Island. Myanmar’s ongoing unrest, characterized by severe internal conflict and a humanitarian crisis, coupled with Bangladesh’s economic and social challenges stemming from an influx of refugees, creates a volatile environment that undermines regional stability. These domestic upheavals significantly shape the strategic calculations of major regional powers, particularly India and China, they compete for influence in the Indo- Pacific. This explores how these crises alter the regional balance of power, impacting India’s strategic posture and its relations with both Bangladesh and Myanmar, while also considering China’s interests. Furthermore, the U.S. ambition to establish a naval base on St. Martin’s Island adds complex layer, raising critical questions about sovereignty and regional security. This critical development could further shift power dynamics and affect stability in the region. By analyzing recent geopolitical developments and strategic manoeuvres, the study aims to illuminate the intricate relationships among these factors, offering a nuanced understanding of how internal crises in Myanmar and Bangladesh intersect with the strategies of major powers.
Translating Children’s Literature: An Exploration of Techniques Used in English- Vietnamese Translation of Aesop’s Fables
This study aims to explore techniques employed in translating children’s literature. In particular, it examines those used in translating story titles, proper names, personal pronouns, and life lessons. Using a purposive corpus built from a collection of Aesop’s fables written in English and their translation into Vietnamese, the study has attained considerable findings. The results show that the techniques used were universal. All the techniques mentioned above have been found in the Vietnamese versions of selected Aesop’s fables. Nonetheless, due to differences in language properties between English and Vietnamese, some instances of translation were far more complicated and tended to combine techniques. This study found a new application for the adaptation technique in translating proper names that can be described as domesticated replacement. The study also suggests that by using bilingual fables as material for teaching English to young learners, teachers can raise their awareness of linguistic differences between English and Vietnamese, and help them appreciate the richness of English and Vietnamese, encouraging them to express similar ideas in different linguistic and cultural contexts.
The Impact of ChatGPT on Students’ Self-directed Foreign Language Learning
The integration of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) technologies into educational environments has become an important area of research. The potential of GenAI to support traditional learning methods by offering opportunities for personalized and self-directed learning is substantial. This study aims to empirically assess the effectiveness of ChatGPT as a learning support tool in undergraduate French language classes. Various assessment methods were used, such as multiple choice tests, essays, and direct communication. Additionally, interviews were conducted to gather further insight. The average post-test scores of students in the experimental group increased significantly, supporting the hypothesis that ChatGPT enhances grammar learning. The integration of ChatGPT in education, particularly in foreign language teaching, demonstrates tangible benefits in enhancing learning outcomes and fostering self-directed learning. ChatGPT has a positive impact on students’ SDL abilities, making them more engaged and autonomous in their foreign language learning process. It differentiates the technology-enhanced learning approach from traditional methods. Further empirical evaluation is recommended to gain deeper insights into ChatGPT’s impact on education and training.
Preserving and Developing Ví, Giặm Nghệ Tĩnh: Ten Years after Its Inscription in UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage: Case Study of Nghệ An
Ví, Giặm Nghệ Tĩnh have long been considered precious cultural heritage of Nghệ An and Hà Tĩnh provinces, reflecting the region’s deep cultural roots and traditions. After being inscribed on UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage a decade ago, there have been concerted efforts to preserve and promote these songs, with noticeable success in various areas. This paper aims to examine the local community’s perception of these preservation efforts and presents an analysis of key data, offering policy recommendations to further protect and develop this musical heritage. The focus is on leveraging the cultural and tourism potential of Ví, Giặm Nghệ Tĩnh while ensuring their continued relevance for future generations. Over the past ten years, significant strides have been made, such as increasing public awareness of the value of these songs and creating more platforms for their performance in both traditional and modern settings. However, as globalization and modern music trends continue to dominate, it is essential for preservation initiatives to be flexible, evolving strategies to ensure that Ví, Giặm Nghệ Tĩnh remain a vital and cherished part of the region’s cultural landscape.
Gender Distinction in Refusal Face-saving Strategies: A Case of English-majored Students at a University in Vietnam
The current study is aimed at investigating refusal face-saving strategies employed by English majors at Thủ Dầu Một University (TDMU) and exploring possible gender distinctions in refusal strategies. The Discourse Completion Task (DCT) concerning 10 refusal situations of invitations and requests was employed as the research instrument. The 120 participants were made up of 60 males and 60 females, resulting in approximately 1,200 speech acts of refusal (SARs). To identify face-saving strategies used by learners of English as a foreign language (EFL), quantitative data was processed and classified according to the refusal strategies used in selected situations based on the framework suggested by Beebe et al (1990). The findings show that expressing regret and giving excuses or explanations are among the preferred formulas used in SARs, thus reflecting students’ reluctance to express their disinclination to comply. The adoption of these formulae indicates the influence of Vietnamese culture in respondents’ realizations of refusals in English. From the survey results, several pedagogical recommendations were made for second language instruction in general and for English language teaching and learning at TDMU in particular.
The Educational Practices of Vietnamese Schools in China: A Case Study of the Guilin Vietnamese 2.9 School (1967-1975)
Previous research on Sino-Vietnamese relations in the 20th century has largely centered on China’s military and material support to Vietnam, with limited attention given to Vietnamese schools in China and Sino-Vietnamese educational collaboration. This paper focuses on the Vietnamese “2.9” School in Guilin, active from 1967 to 1975, by analyzing archival records. It delves into the cooperative educational processes between the two nations, specifically examining the unique educational philosophy, management methods, and teaching practices of Vietnamese schools in China and their significant role in nurturing skilled individuals. The educational activities at the schools were carried out professionally, so that the students had a very promising result. The successful operation of these schools in China exemplifies Sino-Vietnamese educational cooperation, as they trained high quality human resources and strengthened the foundation of friendship. Policy recommendations emphasize that shared interests, along with mutual, unconditional support in critical times, can lead to remarkable accomplishments in the future.
Trade Cooperation between Vietnam and Taiwan (China) over Past Three Decades: Situations and Prospects
Vietnam and Taiwan (China) are two dynamic economies that have been growing strongly in East Asia. The relationship between Vietnam and the island of Taiwan is legally unofficial due to the former’s adherence to the “one-China” policy and Hanoi established an official diplomatic relationship with Beijing. Nevertheless, the absence of an official diplomatic relationship does not mean the end of other cooperative relations between Vietnam and the territory. After more than three decades, areas of cooperation between the two sides have increasingly expanded and reaped considerable achievements, especially in economic cooperation. Specifically, Taiwanese enterprises’ investment capital in Vietnam has increased by 28 times and total trade turnover - 53 times, from USD 401 million in 1992 to USD 21.5 billion in 2022. However, Vietnam - Taiwan (China) trade balance has always been in favor of the latter. This paper aims to look back on the situation of their trade cooperation over the past three decades and explain why Vietnam has always run a trade deficit with Taiwan (China). Thenceforth, it gives prospects to trade cooperation between Vietnam and Taiwan (China) in the coming years.
Implementing the Grassroots Democracy: Theoretical and Practical Perspectives
The implementation of democracy at the grassroots level is a method to promote the people’s rights in Vietnam. It is essentially the execution of the motto “people know, people discuss, people undertake, people inspect, people supervise, people benefit” with the key role of the political system. In this regard, the principle that “the Party leads, the State manages, the People masters” plays an important part. From theoretical and practical perspectives, the paper examines the issues of implementing grassroots democracy. It also employs data collected by the national survey on the provincial governance and public administration efficiency index (PAPI) to assess the current situation of the implementation. The analysis results show that the development of appropriate mechanisms and proactive participation of the people in decision-making process are vital determinants of grassroots democracy. Policy recommendations include strengthening the Party’s leadership and the state’s role of management, building a team of state cadres with quality, morality, fairness in performing public tasks, improving the quality and efficiency, enhancing publicity and transparency, diversifying the format and mechanism of receiving critical opinions from the people, democracy to substantive democracy at the grassroots.
Participation of Ethnic Groups in Activities in Border Markets
The study shows that the development of Vietnam-China border markets since the early 1990s has turned the remote border area into a dynamic socio-economic region following the implementation of various investment policies, especially market improvement and developing policies by the Vietnamese government. Increased livelihood-related activities have been generated for the local ethnic people with the development of the border market. Ethnic groups actively exchange and trade goods in this border social space. The border market has become a place for ethnic groups from inside and outside the locality to gather and trade, creating a vibrant, bustling economy and culture. For the region’s ethnic groups, income generated from market activities is an important financial source supplementing the livelihoods of many households. Since inception, the local economy has improved, the poverty level has decreased, and infrastructure has been upgraded. The findings demonstrate the need for more place- sensitive policies on market development and management in the border areas in general and in the Vietnam-China border area in particular.