Examining contemporary vietnamese land policies through the lens of le thanh tong's 15th-century land tenure system

Abstract

Within the context of a traditional agricultural economy, Le Thanh Tong recognized agriculture as the foundation for national development. The Hong Duc Code, a testament to significant advancements in land management, reflects his emphasis on a king's responsibility to ensure the well-being and prosperity of the people. The land tenure system established under Le Thanh Tong offers valuable lessons for contemporary agricultural policies in Vietnam. Today, the Party and State of Vietnam continue to prioritize agricultural development, ensuring food security. The “Tam Nong” policy, along with the application of scientific and technological achievements in production, has been implemented to boost agricultural economics. Additionally, restrictions on land accumulation and the enactment of the Agricultural Land Transfer Law reflect the inheritance of Le Thanh Tong's policies. Furthermore, the land allocation system fostered a cadre of officials instrumental in the country's sustainable development. By examining and applying historical agricultural policies, Vietnam can navigate towards a prosperous future. This article suggests contemporary land policy reforms by revisiting the legacies of the land tenure system under Le Thanh Tong.