Vietnam Partners with UN to Build AI Governance Framework

Vietnam is getting serious about building a fair and safe digital future, and they're asking the world's experts for help.

Minister of Public Security General Luong Tam Quang announced this week that Vietnam wants the United Nations to help design AI and data governance frameworks. The goal is creating practical guidelines that both public agencies and private companies can actually use.

The timing couldn't be better. Vietnam just hosted the 6th ASEAN Digital Ministers' Meeting in Hanoi, where officials adopted the Hanoi Declaration on digital cooperation. The gathering brought together leaders from across Southeast Asia to coordinate on emerging technology challenges.

Vietnam isn't just talking about digital transformation. The country recently launched its first semiconductor chip manufacturing plant and took home three major prizes at the 2026 ASEAN Digital Awards. Hanoi is rolling out an intelligent traffic control system with over 1,800 AI-powered cameras to manage urban transport.

The Ripple Effect

Vietnam's push for responsible AI governance could set an example for developing nations worldwide. By seeking UN expertise early, the country is trying to build ethical frameworks before problems emerge rather than scrambling to fix issues later.

The collaboration extends beyond the UN. Vietnam and Singapore are deepening cooperation on 5G networks and AI governance, sharing lessons learned. Partnerships with Laos and China are strengthening science and technology exchanges across the region.

Minister Nguyen Manh Hung met with Singapore's Minister for Digital Development Josephine Teo to explore workforce training programs. These initiatives aim to ensure people have the skills needed for tomorrow's digital economy.

The UN partnership focuses on creating guidelines that work in the real world. Vietnam wants frameworks that government agencies can implement and that businesses can follow without getting tangled in complexity.

Vietnam's approach shows how countries can embrace technological progress while building safeguards. Instead of rushing ahead or holding back in fear, they're inviting international expertise to help chart a balanced path forward.

For a nation moving this fast on digital transformation, taking time to get governance right matters. The frameworks Vietnam builds now will shape how millions of people experience AI in their daily lives for years to come.