Refuting arguments claiming that Vietnam must implement “freedom, democracy”, “respect for differences” and “pluralism” to overcome backwardness and advance into the future

Abstract

In the context of globalization and international integration, democracy, freedom, and human rights values are increasingly emphasized as universal norms. However, this process is accompanied by a rise in distorted narratives and misleading claims about Vietnam’s political system, particularly demands for the adoption of “pluralism and multi-party democracy” as a prerequisite for overcoming backwardness and achieving “true democracy”. In cyberspace and certain international media channels, some individuals deliberately equate democracy with Western multi-party models, disregarding the legitimacy and effectiveness of the socialist democracy model led by the Communist Party of Vietnam. This article identifies, refutes these misconceptions through theoretical analysis and practical evidence, both domestically and internationally.