The 1975 merger of numerous northern and north-central provinces in Vietnam led to a reduction in the number of provinces to 38 in 1976. This event is attracting significant public interest, particularly online, with widespread sharing of the 1976 Vietnam map.
1976 Administrative Merger: Down to 38 Provinces
In 1976, Vietnam had only 38 provinces and cities, the lowest number in the past half-century. This reduction in provincial administrative units significantly altered the geographical division. Specifically, the North had 13 provinces and 2 cities, the Central region had 10 provinces, and the South had 12 provinces.
Debate Over the Effectiveness of the 38-Province Model
The reduction to 38 provinces in 1976 sparked considerable debate. Some argued that this model was problematic, citing the large sizes of some northern mountainous and central provinces as hindering movement and administrative procedures. This necessitated adjustments to administrative boundaries in later years.
However, with the rapid development of technology and transportation, many believe that maintaining approximately 30-40 provinces as in 1976 could still be relevant today.
Expert Perspectives
Professor Vũ Minh Giang, Chairman of the Science and Training Council (Hanoi National University), and Vice Chairman of the Vietnam History Science Association, believes the public’s interest in this topic is natural. He suggests that major national decisions generally attract public attention, reflecting concern about political life.
Professor Giang emphasized that all major policy decisions must be based on scientific and practical grounds. Administrative unit arrangements must be aligned with economic, social, historical conditions, and developmental needs. Vietnam has undergone numerous administrative reforms, mergers, and divisions of provinces in the past.
National Assembly member Phạm Văn Hòa suggested that Vietnam should maintain approximately 40 provincial administrative units, emphasizing the need to consider cultural, historical, security, defense, sovereignty, and geopolitical factors when deciding on mergers.
Conclusion
Interest in the 1976 Vietnam map with 38 provinces underscores the pressing need to re-evaluate provincial administrative structures. Vietnam requires thorough research to find the optimal solution, aligning with current conditions and global trends.
References
- Article from the Sài Gòn Giải Phóng newspaper.
- Interview with Professor Vũ Minh Giang on Dân Trí.
- Interview with National Assembly member Phạm Văn Hòa (source unspecified).
