Vietnam’s COVID-19 Strategy: Mobilizing Public Compliance Via Accurate and Credible Communications

Abstract

This article reviews the communication strategies Vietnam took before its detection of the first COVID-19 cases on 23 January and until mid-May. The purpose is to show how early and adequate dissemination of correct information about the pandemic helped in mobilizing public understanding, and thereby slowing the disease. This aspect is often downplayed, if not entirely dismissed, on grounds that Vietnam’s single ruling communist party has a unique control over all communication outlets. What is missing in this argument is how and why, although the state has the tools to control the flow and content of information, it has chosen to be transparent in this case. Writing off the timely government interventions on political grounds also means disregarding the commitment of frontline physicians and workers as well as the voluntary participation of members of society. Regardless of Vietnam’s social and political structure, its early interventions, particularly clear and up-to-date communications, can provide a vital lesson for other countries in dealing with a public health crisis.