Training Needs Assessment of Civil Society Organizations in Vietnam:

Transcription

1 Training Needs Assessment of Civil Society Organizations in Vietnam: Organizational Development and Community Mobilization in the Policy and Law-making Process Civil Society Empowerment and Participation in the Policy and Law-making Process in Vietnam Project HANOI, NOVEMBER 2008

2 This report was prepared by The Asia Foundation with inputs from Dr. Nguyen Thi Thu, independent consultant; Dr. Vuong Thi Hanh and Ms. Ngo Thu Ha, Center for Education Promotion and Empowerment for Women (CEPEW); Professor. Le Thac Can and Mr. Nguyen Duc Tung, Vietnam Environment and Sustainable Development Institute (VESDI); and Dang Thanh Thao and Duong Thi Nga, Institute for Social Studies (ISS).

3 Table of Contents Executive Summary...5 Part 1: Introduction...8 Part 2: Context The policy environment for civil society organizations in Vietnam Need for CSO support and empowerment in Vietnam...14 Part 3: Survey methods Objectives Target and scope Survey targets and assessment Scope of the assessment Survey methods and tools...17 Part 4: Survey findings and assessment Current VNGO organizational structure and ability for institutional strengthening and development Physical infrastructure and organizational structure VNGO objectives and areas of operation VNGO human resources VNGO staff abilities and capacity training to date VNGO staff abilities Training to build capacity for VNGO staff VNGO capacity in policy advocacy and mobilizing community and public participation in policy-making VNGOs and policy advocacy VNGO opinions on the effectiveness of policy advocacy Training related to institutional development and policy advocacy to date VNGO training needs Training needs and topics VNGO opinions on training organization General assessment of VNGO activities related to capacity building General capacity and competence in organizational development The need to build competence in policy advocacy Proposals to strengthen VNGO capacity in institutional development and policy advocacy38 Annexes...46 Annex 1: Bibliography...46 Annex 2: List of people and organizations participating in the survey and interviews...47 Annex 3: Survey sheet for project Civil society empowerment and participation in policy and law-making process in Vietnam...56 Annex 4: Training courses VNGO staff participated in...63 Annex 5: Potential training institutions/experts...65 Annex 6: List of registered VNGOs (as regulated by Decree 81)...72 Annex 7: List of current VNGO networks

4 Case Studies Case Study 1: GENCOMNET and its efforts to achieve gender equality in Vietnam Case Study 2: The Vietnam Association for Conservation of Nature and the Environment and the Tam Dao II Project Case Study 3: The Vietnam Environment and Sustainable Development Institute and the development of the Tourism Law Tables Table 1: Organizational history and current use of websites Table 2: VNGO areas of operation Table 3: Number and age of VNGO staff Table 4: Professional levels of VNGO staff Table 5: Professional levels of leaders within the survey Table 6: Age range and years of work experience in VNGO leadership Table 7: VNGO interest in policy advocacy Table 8: Training needs of VNGOs surveyed Table 9: Training plan

5 Abbreviations CDA Center for Development Assistance CDG Cooperation and Development Group CEPEW Center for Education Promotion and Empowerment for Women CGFED Center for Gender, Family, and Environment in Development CHESH Center for Humanity and Ecology Studies in Highlands CIFPEN Civil Society Inclusion in Food Security and Poverty Elimination Network CISDOMA Consultative Institute for Socioeconomic Development of Rural and Mountainous Areas COHED Community Health and Development CRD Center for Rural Development (Hue) CSAGA Center for Studies & Applied Sciences in Gender-Family-Women & Adolescents CSO Civil Society Organization DFID United Kingdom Department for International Development DWC Center for Women and Children EIA Environmental Impact Assessment GENCOMNET Gender and Community Development Network INGO International Non-Governmental Organization ISS Institute for Social Studies HAVAG HIV/AIDS Vietnam Action Groups MARD Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development MCD Marine Life and Community Development MFWG Microfinance Working Group MOC Ministry of Construction MONRE Ministry of Environment and Resources ONA Office of the National Assembly OOG Office of the Government PPWG Public Participation Working Group SDC Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation SIDA Swedish International Development Agency SRD Center for Sustainable Development TAF The Asia Foundation TEW Center for Research and Empowerment of Ethnic Women TOT Training-of-Trainers 3

6 UNDP VACNE VACVINA VESDI VIDS VNAT VNGO VNGOG VNWP VRN VUSTA United Nations Development Program Vietnam Association for Conservation of Nature and the Environment Vietnam Gardeners Association Vietnam Environment & Sustainable Development Institute Vietnam Institute of Development Studies Vietnam Administration of Tourism Vietnamese Non-Governmental Organization Vietnamese Non-Governmental Organization Group The Vietnam Water Partnership Vietnam Rivers Network Vietnam Union of Scientific and Technological Associations 4

7 Executive Summary In recent years, Vietnamese Non-Governmental Organizations (VNGOs) have increased in volume, giving a new face to civil society in the country. With the advantage of thoroughly understanding the needs of local communities and being able to implement appropriate alternatives, VNGOs have contributed to poverty reduction and the sustainable development process of the country, and helped improved the quality of public services in remote areas where the Government has yet to reach the population. Lack of a supportive legal framework, sustainable financial resources, and poor institutional capacity are obstacles in the development of these non-profit, non-governmental organizations. The voice of those affected by government policies and decisions has yet to be heard by policymakers. Acknowledging the critical role of VNGOs and recognizing their challenges, The Asia Foundation (TAF), in collaboration with the Vietnam Union of Scientific and Technological Associations (VUSTA) and other relevant organizations, is implementing the project Civil society empowerment and participation in the policy and law-making process in Vietnam for a three year period with the following three objectives: (i) to strengthen nonprofit sector governance and civil society networking; (ii) to build civil society capacity for effective mobilization of public participation in decision-making process; and (iii) to foster and strengthen civil society engagement with the National Assembly. This assessment is one of the initial activities conducted by TAF in collaboration with three organizations in Vietnam, the Institute for Social Studies (ISS), the Vietnam Environment & Sustainable Development Institute (VESDI), and the Center for Education Promotion and Empowerment for Women (CEPEW), as a basis for developing a training program within a project on internal governance and advocacy for VNGOs. This report is structured in four parts. Part 1 provides a general introduction. Part 2 outlines the context, including the policy environment relating to VNGOs and their needs with regard to capacity building. Part 3 introduces the survey approach and target groups from two types of civil society organizations: NGOs established under Decree 81 and Associations established under Decree 88. Secondary data from existing documents were collected and researched, and a questionnaire and face-to-face interviews were also conducted. Part 4 synthesizes the findings of the assessment and concludes with recommendations. The findings affirm the anticipated information and additionally provide new and useful data for forthcoming training activities of the project. Some notable results are as follows: 1) Current organization and ability of VNGOs in institutional strengthening and development: Almost all VNGOs have experienced difficulties with physical infrastructure and facilities. Approximately 80% of the surveyed organizations have to rent office space, while the remaining organizations are utilizing private homes due to lack of funding. The number of VNGOs established in the past ten years makes up 68.2% of the surveyed organizations (55 of 79), reflecting an enormous increase in volume. The number of VNGOs without a website is about 64.5% (51 of 79): 13 of which have been established for over ten years; 22 for six to ten years; and 16 established for five years. This suggests that whether a VNGO develops its own website or not does not depends on the number of years of operation. VNGOs cover a diverse range of topics. 80% of the surveyed organizations (61 of 76) cover three to eleven different areas of operation. The vast majority focus on poverty 5

8 reduction and community development, environment and resources, and agriculture, forestry and fisheries, representing 72.3% (55 of 76); 63.1% (48 of 76); and 53.9% (41 of 76) of surveyed organizations, respectively. Advocacy receives significant attention as well, with 42.1% of the surveyed organizations working in this area. VNGO staff is plentiful and tend to be younger. Those below 30 years of age make up 45.2%, and among those who have attained high professional titles, 88.9% hold at least a Bachelors degree. However, among VNGO leadership, most people are older in age. 68% are over the age of 50, and 16 out of 51 are over the age of 70, showing the necessity to prepare the next generation of leaders in coming years. 2) Current capacity of VNGO staff and empowerment training: Fundraising is seen by VNGO leadership as a crucial task, but one that creates a tremendous challenge for the majority of VNGOs. Findings demonstrate that 50% of leaders think they have fulfilled this task at a level 3 (i.e. completed more than half of the required task), while about 30% of leaders ranked it at level 4 (able to fully fulfill the task, but it required a great amount of time) and those who reached level 5 accounted for only 20% (able to fulfill the required task). The most challenging job for project staff lies in proposal writing with 40% of interviewees admitting they fulfilled the job at a level 1 or 2 (i.e. unable to complete any part of the job or just half of it). Although recognizing the importance of building staff capacity, VNGOs face a number of challenges in sending their staff to relevant training due to limited financial resources, high workloads and operational sites located in remote areas. More than 30% of the surveyed organizations, mostly newly-established VNGOs and those in Hue and Ho Chi Minh City, said that they have never been to any training. More than 70% of those organizations that participated in training courses said they have never attended any course on institutional development and advocacy. 3) Current capacity of VNGOs for advocacy work and mobilizing community participation in the policy-making process: Advocacy may be a new theoretical concept in Vietnam, but has long existed in reality. 68.3% of the surveyed organizations said they are interested in advocacy. Some VNGOs have been engaged in drafting important regulations and laws and successfully communicated the concerns/ideas of local communities throughout the drafting process of these laws and regulations. A number of training courses on institutional development (ID) and advocacy have been conducted with specific objectives. They offer content on applicable up-to-date knowledge and skills and they employ highly interactive teaching methods. However, the courses are limited by content and training manuals that are not standardized, poor delivery of presentations, which fail to attract participant attention, theory-focused coursework, and case studies that are delivered from an international perspective and not appropriately tailored to Vietnamese society. Most importantly, there are no resources for follow-up activities for participants to apply knowledge and skills learned throughout the training programs. 4) Training needs of VNGOs: The training needs of VNGOs are substantial. When asked about training needs of 79 organizations participating in the survey, 1,370 staff responses indicated a desire to 6

9 participate in five training areas, including: i) training and training-of-trainers (TOT) on institutional development, which accounted for the most at 47.5% (651 of 1,370) and ii), TOT on mobilizing community participation in policy and law-making process, which accounted for 41.1%. These findings clearly show VNGO s desire further training. With regard to organizing training, VNGOs suggested that content be structured into a set of training modules, with each module taught in succession. They also suggested leaders and staff be placed in separate courses. Training for leaders should be short, 1-2 day stints due to their demanding schedules, while training for staff can last for as long as 4 days due to less demanding schedules. In terms of training methods, more time should be allocated for practice through hands-on exercises, group discussions, and context-appropriate case studies. Additional funding is necessary for post-training activities so that participants can put what they have learned into practice. The number of participants should not exceed 30. Based on the findings in this training needs assessement, the consultants have developed some recommendations to empower VNGOs in the area of institutional development and advocacy, an essential requirement of which is to create an enabling policy environment for institutional strengthening and empowerment of VNGOs through training. The consultants have also proposed a training program on institutional development and advocacy within the project for the next phase. 7

10 Part 1: Introduction For several decades, the State disseminated information, implemented policies, delivered basic social services, and solicited public views through its socio-political organization system, which operates under the umbrella of the Fatherland Front and includes the Women s Union, the Peasant s Union, the Youth Union, the Veteran s Association and the Labour Federation. Although this system continues to play an important role in disseminating information, implementing policies, and delivering basic social services to a massive number of people, it is no longer effective in soliciting public views in order to inform policy-makers on issues related to social change. The number of VNGOs is small, but steadily increasing. Thoroughly understanding the needs of local communities and delivering relevant alternatives are strengths of the average VNGO. However, absence of an enabling legal framework and sustainable financial resources, combined with limited institutional capacities, are factors hindering the development of the non-profit, non-governmental sector. As a result, the voice of those affected by government policies and laws has yet to be heard. Some more experienced VNGOs have begun to mobilize their skills and knowledge and secured official access to provide feedback and multifaceted analysis in order to influence government policies and mechanisms. In doing so, they work closely with like-minded colleagues from member organizations and socio-political organizations. Yet these efforts are rare, and oftentimes, short term and ad hoc in nature. Previous assessments of Vietnam s civil society revealed it had the potential to organize the participation of individuals in the development process for a better society. However, fragmentation of civil society is a disadvantage limiting the participation and contributions of citizens in the development process, which can be resolved when organizations and groups work together more closely and the general population becomes more open to civil society organizations (CSOs). There should be clearer distinctions in areas of work among CSOs, so that each group is able to focus on what they specialize in more effectively. Meanwhile, member organizations should continue to enhance their roles and responsibilities in society. 1 In Vietnam, where mass organizations have far reaching networks and play critical roles in policy, mechanisms for more effective coordination between CSOs and mass organizations toward the goal of the country s sustainable development should be examined and proposed. Acknowledging the substantial role of VNGOs and their challenges, The Asia Foundation, in collaboration with VUSTA and other relevant organizations, has been implementing a project titled Civil society empowerment and participation in the policy and law-making process in Vietnam for a three year period with a goal toward fulfilling the following three objectives: (i) to strengthen governance and civil society networking of the nonprofit sector; (ii) to build civil society capacity for the effective mobilization of public participation in the decisionmaking process; and (iii) to foster and strengthen civil society engagement with the National Assembly. To achieve the aforementioned objectives, TAF will carry out the following activities: Establish a database of VNGOs and assess their needs for improving internal governance, policy advocacy, and the mobilization of public participation in the policy and law-making process in Vietnam. Support and promote cooperation and networking among VNGOs. 1 Nordlund, Irene and Dang Ngoc Dinh. Initial Assessment of the Civil Society in Vietnam. CIVICUS, VIDS, SNV, and UNDP (March 2006). 8

11 Conduct training courses on internal governance and mobilization of public participation and policy advocacy for selected VNGOs. Facilitate exchange of information and engagement of VNGOs with the National Assembly in the policy and law-making process. Incorporate information on public participation and the role of VNGO s in the policy and law-making process into the National Assembly s own training programs. This assessment is one of the initial activities conducted by TAF in collaboration with three organizations in Vietnam, including ISS, VESDI and CEPEW, as a basis for developing a training program within the project on internal governance and advocacy for VNGOs. The findings of the assessment, presented in Part 4, will cover an assessment of the current capacity of VNGOs in strengthening institutional development and advocacy, as well as an assessment of staff training needs, through which gaps in knowledge and skills are identified. Part 5 offers a general assessment of capacity and training in capacity enhancement, particularly in institutional development and policy advocacy. Part 6 provides recommendations on how to empower VNGOs in internal governance and advocacy. These recommendations include the creation of an enabling policy environment for institutional strengthening and empowerment of VNGOs through training and a proposal of a training program on institutional development and advocacy within the project for the next phase. 9

12 Part 2: Context 1. The policy environment for civil society organizations in Vietnam Since 1986, Vietnam s pursuit of market-led growth has resulted in institutional and regulatory reforms surrounding economic development and private sector growth. This new phase of development in global competitiveness requires further institutional reforms to create appropriate alternatives that take full advantage of opportunities and address challenges in sustaining economic growth and social stability. Societal advancement should be based on the development of three key sectors: civil society, the public sector, and the economy. 2 The development of civil society in harmony with the State and the economy will empower the country. 3 The concept of civil society originated in Europe, and since then has been a focus of both the scientific and policy-making community alike. Common definitions underline the willingness of citizens to voluntarily protect their own legitimate rights and values. 4 Thus, CSOs are commonly characterized as: (i) organizations that operate according to the principles of volunteerism, self-determination, and financial independence, (ii) function outside of the state arena, and (iii) non-profit. 5 CSOs are established in order to link modern interest groups with conventional organizations and formal organizations with non-formal organizations. This takes shape in three basic forms: (i) Associations, which are CSOs with members (Associations can be established to serve social needs or directly serve the interests of its members); (ii) Foundations, which are CSOs without members and under the management of a Board of s designated by its founders (Foundations operate according to their charter, strategy and plan); and (iii) NGOs, which are a type of CSO that deliver public services, conduct fundraising campaigns, and carry out services in order to cover operational expenses (NGOs do not have members and are established by a group of individuals serving similar social needs). Along with the state, the objective of CSOs is to address critical social, economic, and political issues in society. They are specifically tasked with mobilizing large numbers of people in order to resolve social issues, and organizing the delivery and transfer of technology to remote and disadvantaged areas where for-profit organizations are reluctant to invest and the State cannot reach. Oftentimes, they must also train the local community with the managerial and technical skills to use such technology. By monitoring societal feedback and encouraging public participation in the policy-making process as well as the implementation of those policies, CSOs act as a bridge between the Communist Party, the state and the general public. 6 CSOs had existed in Vietnam for quite some time, although their number and organizational capacity grew markedly since the advent of of the doi moi (renovation) policy in 1986 and the economic reforms and social changes which followed. Although the concept of civil society is still not commonly used in the official domain, to a certain extent the Party and the State have already paid attention to the institutional and regulatory foundations for civil society. At 2 Doan Thanh Liem. Civil Society: Partnership and Counterbalance to the State. Dan Chim Viet (August 28, 2008). 3 Le Bach Duong. Strong Civil Society, Strong State. Xa Lo Tin Tuc (April 23, 2008). 4 Bui Quang Dung. Civil Society: Concepts and Issues. Journal of Philosophy (April 15, 2007). 5 Nguyen Manh Cuong. Handbook for Establishing and Governing Civil Society Organizations in Vietnam Nguyen Manh Cuong. Handbook for Establishing and Governing Civil Society Organizations in Vietnam

13 the outset of doi moi, the establishment of many civil society organizations was encouraged by a series of policies introduced by the Party and the State. Resolution 8B-NG/HNTW (Session VI) by the Party indicated that in the new phase, associations should be established to satisfy legitimate professional and public needs and operate based on common interests. These should be formed on the principles of volunteerism, self-determination, and financial independence in compliance with existing laws. 7 The 9 th Party Congress Resolution continues to affirm that newly established organizations should extend and diversify forms by which the public are mobilized to participate in mass and social, professional, cultural, friendship, charity and humanitarian organizations and support and promote not-for-profit activities that meet the needs and serve the interests of the public. These organizations are authorized to deliver public services under the supervision of communities so that the State is able to concentrate its efforts on more crucial tasks. Following these directives by the Party and the Constitution, a large number of legal documents have been promulgated enabling the establishment of different types of people s organizations such as: (i) Decree 88/2003/NĐ-CP, dated 30/7/200, by the Government on the organization, operation and management of associations; (ii) Decree 148/2007/NĐ-CP, dated 25/9/2007, by the Government on the organization, operation and management of Foundations; (iii) Decree 81/2003/NĐ-CP by the Government guiding a number of articles under the Law of Science and Technology; (iv) Decree 25/CP, dated 1/5/2001, by the Government promulgating regulations on the establishment and operation of social protection centers; (v) Decree 05/2005/NQ-CP on promoting the socialization of educational, health, cultural and sport activities; and (vi),_decree 53/NĐ-CP, dated 25/5/2006, on encouraging organizations working in education, culture, science and sport. As a result, a large number of new organizations have been established in addition to mass organizations and professional associations. These organizations take the form of NGOs and community groups. CSOs mentioned in this report are those registered in three ways: (i) NGOs established under Decree 81/2002; (ii) Associations under the Decree 88/2002; and (iii) Non-governmental foundations under Decree 148/2007 (below please find more details). 8 A. CSOs under Decree 81/ND-CP-2002 CSOs established and operating under Decree 81/ND-CP-2002 are NGOs without members and work mainly in the area of science and technology. Existing data suggests there are 222 organizations registered under this Decree in Vietnam (please refer to Annex 6 for a comprehensive list). In keeping with the goal of serving society and the community, these organizations, are granted the following rights by the Government under current regulations: Exemption from value added tax and corporate tax for income generated from contracts in science and technology and the implementation of similar projects and programs. Exemption from import tax for imported machines, facilities and materials not available in the country. Favorable credit for science and technology from the Development Promotion Fund; Access to and utilization of official development assistance. Access to the most favorable rates for land lease and lowest rate of land-use tax regulated by law. 7 Nguyen Ngoc Lam. Operation of Civil Society Organizations in Vietnam. SIDA (August 2008). 8 Nguyen Manh Cuong. Handbook for Establishing and Governing Civil Society Organizations in Vietnam

14 Access to non-governmental financial resources and participation in international exchanges and networking. If these organizations are members under an Association such as the Lawyers Association, the Physics Association, the Math Association, or VUSTA, they are eligible to the rights of those associations to provide societal feedback and monitoring for policies and the development of programs as defined by Decree 22/TTG/2002. This Decree includes a provision that allows VUSTA to provide societal feedback and monitoring for State-funded projects and policies. Therefore, member organizations are also eligible for these rights. CSOs registered in this form have been able to access donor funding on a large scale, benefiting from tax exemption for not-for-profit activities, and are eligible for other favorable conditions not provided to for-profit entities. B. Associations registered under Decree 88/2002/NĐ-CP Associations operate mainly according to Decree 88/2003/NĐ-CP, dated 30/7/2003, by the Government on organizations, operations and management of associations, and to Circular 01/2004/TT-BNV, dated 15/1/2004, by the Ministry of Home Affairs. The latter includes several guiding articles under Decree 88/2003/NĐ-CP. According to these documents, associations are voluntary organizations comprised of Vietnamese citizens who share a common profession, interest, gender, or view of mobilizing and uniting members. They operate on a regular basis and for non-profit purposes to protect the legitimate rights and benefits of members. They support each other to work more effectively in contributing to the country s socio-economic development. Associations are organized and operate under the aforementioned Decree and other related legal documents. Associations can be named variously as Unions, Federations, Federation of Associations, or Clubs, and have legal status and name by law. Associations registered under the Decree are eligible to the following right and responsibilities: Protection of their legitimate rights and benefits as associations and member organizations. Organize and coordinate activities among members for the common goal of the association and to reconcile internal conflicts. Disseminate information and provide training to members; provide necessary information to members by law. Provide advice and feedback regarding the activities of the association as requested by individuals and organizations. Associations can network with one another and with the support of VUSTA to conduct research and elicit multi-sectoral societal feedback; Sanctioned to conduct fundraising campaigns to cover operational expenses through membership fees and income from business and services. Authorized to receive legitimate funding from international and domestic organizations and individuals. Associations with national or multi-province coverage can become members of international and regional associations under Decree 20/2002/NĐ-CP, dated 20/02/2002 by the Government, regarding the signing and implementing of international agreements by provinces, centrally-managed cities, socio-political organizations, social organizations and professional organizations of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. According to data provided by the Ministry of Home Affairs Department of Non-Government Affairs, thus far 389 associations with 12

15 country-wide coverage have been established (including professional and charitable associations), and over 6,500 associations with local coverage (exclusive of tens of thousands of associations established in communes, towns and districts). C. Non-governmental foundations established under Decree 148/ND-CP/2007 Foundations are NGOs with legal status, founded by one or a number of individuals and organizations through endowments established from contracts, gifts or wills for purposes of supporting culture, education, health, sport, science, charity or humanitarian endeavors in the public interest and not for profit. Foundations and their charters are established and recognized by an authorized government agency. According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, there are currently thousands of such organizations registered in Vietnam (although there was no specific data available at the time of this survey). A foundation established under Decree 148/ND-CP/2007 has the following rights and responsibilities: Authorized to solicit contributions and funding, and to receive assets donated by individuals and organizations domestically and internationally according to the misson and goals of the foundation and who share their respective missions and goals. Use the funds in accordance with the authorization of individual donors/funding agencies and in line with the foundation s own mission and goal. Sanctioned to deliver services and other activities permitted under the law to maintain and grow the foundation s assets. Companies funding the foundation receive a deduction in corporate income tax. Through this mechanism, the State encourages the market to promote humanitarian, social and non-profit activities. In addition to policies enabling the establishment and operation of VNGOs, the Government has issued a number of policies encouraging the participation of the public and social organizations in community development activities. A decree to enhance democracy at the grassroots level, promulgated in 1998 (revised and upgraded to an Ordinance on democracy at the grassroots level in 2003), has enabled and fostered greater engagement of the public and social organizations in decision-making at the grassroots level. Through this Ordinance, the public has been involved in monitoring the performance of state agencies and state cadres at the local level. Vietnam s strategy for socio-economic development for the period from has begun to encourage the engagement of the public in all aspects of socio-political life. The maxim, People know, people discuss, people do and people check has increasingly influenced the socio-economic and political systems. The role of CSOs in delivering public services and influencing policy-making process has opened up opportunities for the public. Decision 22/TTG/2002, for example, allows VUSTA to provide feedback and monitor state-funded projects and policies, thus extending this right to its member organizations. 9 In transferring knowledge and skills (e.g. a new way of doing business) to the public, CSOs and associations have carried out activities that bring them close to the people. The activities of these organizations are rather limited, however, although they have professional, organizational and managerial potential, as well as strong networks domestically and internationally. Therefore, it is important to support CSO engagement in the development process from the community level. This requires the leadership of the Party, the government, the Fatherland Front, and member organizations, particularly at the commune, ward and 9 Nguyen Manh Cuong. Handbook for Establishing and Governing Civil Society Organizations in Vietnam

16 township levels, to give adequate attention to CSOs. In doing so, they must first and foremost change their own perceptions of the role CSOs in society and acknowledge their positive and effective contributions. 2. Need for CSO support and empowerment in Vietnam In recent years, there have been several studies on CSOs in order to help the public develop a better understanding of civil society in Vietnam and to outline the roles and mechanisms for citizens to pro-actively participate in and contribute to the socio-economic development process. It is worth noting the study Initial assessment of civil society in Vietnam, which CIVICUS conducted in collaboration with the Vietnam Institute of Development Studies (VIDS), a local NGO, in The report examines the current status of civil society in Vietnam from four perspectives: (i) civil society s structure; (ii) the socio-economic context of civil society; (iii) its values; and (iv) the impact of its activities. The report also indicates that civil society is a very new concept to Vietnam, but its implications have existed, developed, and had a positive influence on the socio-political life of the country. Civil society in Vietnam has a broad, but not very deep, societal structure. A regulatory framework for its development is in place, but enabling factors for the participation of civil society are still weak. Yet the value added of civil society is substantial, and the different areas where they have made an impact include advocacy for the poor, participation in poverty reduction, the fight for gender equality, illiteracy eradication, improvement of health and educational services for local people, environmental protection, and societal monitoring, among others. Paralleling this initial study, a workshop on Empowering VNGOs and promoting their participation in the socio-economic development of Vietnam was held on September 11, 2006 to identify the challenges faced by VNGOs and to discuss alternatives for stakeholders to support the creation of an enabling environment for VNGOs and their networks, as well as to enhance their individual capacity. Participants of the workshop reached a common consensus that VNGOs play a significant role as a productive supporting force for the Government and the market, particularly in service delivery. The recent research report prepared by Bùi Thế Cường and Thaveeporn Vasavakul (November 2008) for the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) on support for An official mechanism for dialogue between Vietnamese Government Agencies/the National Assembly and Civil Society Organizations in Vietnam points out that VNGOs do not fit the definition of non-governmental organizations adopted by the field of civil society studies. However, the research team sees potential for CSOs role and considers these imperfect attributes as areas for negotiation, both between CSOs and the state, as well as the CSOs themselves. The research reasons that the application of the legal framework is basis for realizing the dialogue mechanism, which depends mainly on how the government agencies and the National Assembly view CSOs and their role, and how different types of CSOs use the existing structure for dialogue purposes. The report contends that government agencies in principle have not formalized the dialogue mechanism for exchange with CSOs. As for CSOs, the disadvantages are their weak internal capacity and ability to strengthen their collective voices through networking and coordination with other like-minded organizations/networks. The report lists out five key problem areas in the dialogue mechanism between government agencies, National Assembly and CSOs, which may serve as entry points for SDC s further support. Another noteworthy research was prepared by Ben Kerkvliet, Nguyễn Quang A, and Bạch Tân Sinh for the UK Department for International Development (DFID) in December 2008 titled, Forms of engagement between state agencies and civil society organizations in Vietnam. Research results contend that engagement between CSOs and government agencies developed due to the more conducive general political and legal environment. It has become 14

17 increasingly possible for organizations to form and acquire legal standing. Through open engagement, the government and CSOs develop fruitful relationships, especially in service delivery. Service delivery often includes multiple facets of engagement: helping to carry out state programs aimed at benefiting citizens, providing services the state cannot cover, advocating policy, and monitoring authorities actions. The report raised some recommendations for action to develop civil society and further engage the state, which fall into three categories: (i) improving the institutional and regulatory environment, (ii) popularizing engagement and civil society activities, and (iii) strengthening engagement between state and CSOs in such forms as service delivery, policy and law-making, monitoring and holding officials accountable, and channeling citizen concerns. VNGO strength comes from their teams of dedicated, multi-sectoral, experienced staff, and from their participatory work approaches. The potential contribution of VNGOs is substantial. Yet they have faced a number of challenges: the absence of a comprehensive regulatory framework, difficulties accessing financial resources, while the activities of many NGOs themselves still lack the defining character and roles that can lead to strong societal impact.. Their visions, missions, mandates, and objectives are often unclear. From this reality, several recommendations have been drawn for stakeholders: (i) the State should improve the sociopolitical environment to strengthen civil society; (ii) it should ensure greater equality for CSOs, mass organizations and VNGOs; and (iii) it should encourage VNGOs to further engage in supporting the socio-economic development of the country. Donors and International Non-Governmental Organizations (INGOs) should provide support to establish a VNGO network and further engage VNGOs in carrying out development programs by empowering and institutionally strengthening them through training, needs assessment and dialogue. CSOs themselves should play a more pro-active role in promoting accountability, transparency and legitimacy as a representative of the public. They should take full advantage of available opportunities to establish networks and better cooperate with other organizations, donors and INGOs, as well as develop links with the local communities. In other words, with an eye towards promoting their own role with support from the Government, donors and INGOs, VNGOs should enhance their own overall institutional capacity, formulate long-term strategies with clearer visions, and focus on human resource development in both quantity and quality. The establishment of ISS in 2008 facilitated the empowerment of VNGOs, through which donors and INGOs provide financial and technical assistance in the process. These organizations should first strengthen their internal governance in order to operate more effectively in their respective areas of work and have long-term engagement in policy and law-making process in Vietnam. This assessment was carried out in collaboration with and support from ISS and other NGOs to identify the training needs of CSOs and to provide initial information and data on CSOs in Vietnam and available VNGO networks for the development of the country. VNGOs need for training on institutional development and policy advocacy is the main focus of this assessment. Based on initial information and data, ISS will continue to collect necessary information to be able to develop a more comprehensive database of CSOs in Vietnam. In particular, ISS will develop a database of functional and effective VNGOs within their registered specializations. The development of this database will help organizations covering relevant topics share information and experience, improve understanding of the private sector and the State around VNGO s activities and contributions, and promote cooperation in the future. 15

18 Part 3: Survey methods 1. Objectives Overall goal: To assess training needs as a basis for developing a program to empower staff and VNGOs in participating in the policy and law-making process in Vietnam. Specific objectives: (i) to understand the organization and operation of VNGOs; (ii) to assess the current capabilities of VNGOs in institutional development and mobilization of the public in policy-making; (iii) to assess VNGO staff abilities to carry out general tasks and in the policy-making process in Vietnam in particular; (iv) to identify VNGO training needs for institutional development and mobilization of the public in policy-making in Vietnam; and (v), to propose a training program for VNGOs on institutional development and mobilization of the public in policy-making in Vietnam. 2. Target and scope 2.1. Survey targets and assessment The selection of targeted individuals and organizations included in the survey was thoroughly analyzed and discussed, and was intended to achieve the objectives mentioned above, within a limited timeframe and with little funding. Organizations: Based on the list of CSOs registered under the Government Decrees indicated in Part 2.1, the group decided to select those registered to work in such fields as education, training and health, science and technology, environment and resources, and the socioeconomy (under Decree 53/2006/NĐ/CP). Therefore, the survey focuses on two types of CSOs including: (i) VNGOs established under Decree 81 (formerly Decree 35). These organizations primarily deliver public services and do fundraising. The majority of these organizations are at a nascent stage of development compared to other groups of CSOs. Therefore, they require more support, particularly in relation to capacity building through training and networking. Their recent establishment is also one reason for the needs assessment to focus on them; and (ii) A number of associations established under the Decree 88, those meeting the criteria mentioned above, and those operating in a similar way to NGOs. Based on a compiled list of associations and VNGOs, the group selected 110 organizations and sent them a formal request letter with questionnaires. Those selected have offices based in three key cities: Hanoi, Hue, and Ho Chi Minh City, and in some cases, offices in Ha Tay (Hanoi), Thanh Hoa, Ha Tinh, Hai Phong, Hai Duong, Bac Can and Thai Nguyen (please refer to Annex 2 for comprehensive list of participants). The group conducted individual interviews with one leader and one staff in charge of programs/projects for their respective organizations. Face-to-face interviews were done in Hanoi, Hue, and Central Vietnam, which served as sites for north Vietnam, central Vietnam, and south Vietnam, respectively Scope of the assessment With an eye towards developing a framework for a training program for VNGOs, the group focused on collecting and analyzing information related to institutional, as well as individual capacity of VNGO leadership and staff focusing specifically on organizational development and policy advocacy. The information includes: 16

19 The current status of a VNGO s ability to strengthen and develop the organization: The survey emphasized aspects pertaining to organizational structure, human resources, material infrastructure and facilities, and particularly financial resources, to ensure professionalism in the operation of VNGOs. It aims to understand how VNGOs have thus far developed their strategies, missions and visions, as well as how they have defined their roles, responsibilities, target groups and key interventions. The current status of a VNGO s ability in policy advocacy: The survey explains the level of a VNGO s interest in advocacy work, the areas and the methods for advocacy, the current regulatory framework required to participate in the policy and law-making process in Vietnam, and the current status of networking and the form of a VNGO s advocacy operations. VNGO training needs in organizational development and policy advocacy: The survey assesses current status of training to strengthen VNGO capacity in general and in institutional development and advocacy in particular. 3. Survey methods and tools The following methods were employed: Collecting and studying existing documents: The group collected research reports on civil society in Vietnam, advocacy activities from VNGO groups and networks, lists of VNGOs and associations from federations of associations, associations, ministries, departments and provinces, manuals and related training documents, and relevant reference materials from the internet. Questionnaires: A set of questionnaires were developed based on the specific objectives and content of the survey. Additionally, the questionnaires were based on references made to questionnaires from studies on the training needs identified in another project called Improvement of cooperation and learning among VNGOs ENABLE. Questionnaires were developed around two target areas: (i) institutional ability, as provided by Form #1 on VNGO capacity; and (ii) individual ability, as provided by Form #2 on the abilities of VNGO leadership and project staff. Questionnaires were sent to 110 organizations. However, only 79 organizations completed and returned the forms (face-to-face interviews were conducted with staff and leadership of these organizations); 31 organizations did not give any feedback, although the consultants tried to contact them (please refer to Annex 3 for content on questionnaires). Interviews: Interviews were carried out with two target groups within the 79 surveyed organizations: leadership and program/project staff (please refer to Annex 3 for content on interview guidelines). In the 79 organizations, the group interviewed 75 directors/vice directors of Centers and Institutes and presidents/vice presidents of Associations, and 56 staff members in charge of projects and programs. Information collected from leaders covered institutional capacity, challenges related to institutional strengthening and development, and advocacy implementation in Vietnam. In addition, leaders were interviewed in-depth about individual abilities as the lead person in the organization. Information collected from staff covered individual ability to carry out general tasks, mobilize the public in policy and lawmaking process with specific focus on project sites, as well as training needs for empowerment in these areas (please refer to Annex 2). 17

20 Part 4: Survey findings and assessment 1. Current VNGO organizational structure and ability for institutional strengthening and development 1.1. Physical infrastructure and organizational structure Physical infrastructure and facilities are among the essential elements of any organization, especially to VNGOs working in education, training, environment, poverty reduction and community development. A common observation is that the majority of VNGOs are faced with inadequate physical infrastructure and facilities. The assessment does not provide enough data on essential facilities and office space. However, the assessment shows that no organization currently owns an office aside from the Center for Research and Empowerment of Ethnic Women (TEW). Of the surveyed VNGOs, approximately 80% have to rent office space while the remaining organizations use private homes as offices due to a lack of funding. Having to rent office space given their already limited funding, these organizations have to work in relatively small spaces. Despite these difficulties, they all have managed to invest in essential office needs, such as desktops with internet connection, telephone, fax, tables and chairs. On communication among CSOs, although most organizations have made their activities known, communication and exchange among them is not optimal. There has been some cooperation between CSOs on issues of common interest, including gender equality and domestic violence prevention; however, regular communication is still rare. Vehicles for information sharing via and websites are limited and under-utilized unless there is support from international donor in creating networks (e.g. Gender and Community Development Network-GENCOMNET). It is often the case that information sharing and cooperation on a regular basis is not sustained after donors phase out. This situation has yet improved. Though the number of VNGOs was randomly selected and accounts for a small percentage of all existing VNGOs, data presented in Table 1 below shows that the number of recentlyestablished VNGOs in the past decade makes up about 68.2% of the total surveyed organizations (55 of 79). This finding reflects the dramatic increase in the presence of VNGOs that has been found in previous studies. Table 1: Organizational history and current use of websites Caculation unit: % Number of Number of years of Current use of surveyed establishment website organizations > 10 Not yet Yes Data in Table 1 demonstrates that the number of VNGOs developing their own websites accounts for only 35.5% (28 of 79), while those without a website account for 64.5% (51 of 79). Of these 51 organizations, 13 have been established for over ten years, 22 for six to ten years and 16 for five years. This indicates that website development does not hinge on the number of years an organization has under its belt. There are many reasons offered by VNGOs for the reasons why a website is not yet construction, but most responses cite lack of 18