In a resolute move to uphold the highest standards of child protection and fulfill international commitments, the People’s Committee of Hai Phong has officially launched a comprehensive plan to implement the "Toolkit to Prevent and Handle Non-Compliance with Laws in the Field of Intercountry Adoption" for the 2026-2030 period. This strategic initiative, based on Prime Ministerial and Ministerial mandates, aims to modernize adoption management, prevent illegal practices, and enhance the city's standing in international diplomatic relations.
The implementation plan for Hai Phong City is a direct response to Decision No. 2696/QD-TTg issued by the Prime Minister on December 11, 2025, and Decision No. 188/QD-BTP issued by the Minister of Justice on January 19, 2026. These central government directives established the national framework for the Toolkit, which Hai Phong is now translating into localized action.
The primary objective of this plan is to ensure that intercountry adoption is carried out in the best interest of the child. By strictly following the recommendations within the Toolkit, Hai Phong aims to effectively implement the 1993 Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption. This commitment demonstrates Vietnam's responsibility as a proactive member of the international community in protecting the rights of vulnerable children.
Hai Phong’s plan is built on several core pillars designed to eliminate loopholes and foster a transparent adoption environment:
- Preventing and Handling Non-Compliance: The plan focuses on identifying, preventing, and strictly handling any behaviors that do not comply with intercountry adoption laws. This includes enhancing the effectiveness of coordination between various departments to ensure oversight at every stage of the process.
- Capacity Building and Communication: From 2026 to 2030, the city will prioritize raising awareness among all levels of government and the community regarding adoption laws and the 1993 Hague Convention. This includes organizing training sessions, workshops, and publishing specialized communication materials.
- Support Services: The plan introduces a model for consultation and support services that spans before, during, and after the adoption process. These services are intended for adoptive parents, the children, and other relevant stakeholders, ensuring they are well-prepared and supported throughout the transition.
While the Department of Justice serves as the leading agency for this plan, the Department of Foreign Affairs plays an indispensable role as a coordinating partner, particularly in matters involving international elements.
The Department of Foreign Affairs is specifically tasked with several critical functions:
- Monitoring and Post-Adoption Protection: Along with the Police and Health departments, the Department of Foreign Affairs coordinates the monitoring of child development and integration after they have been adopted abroad. In cases where there are signs of abuse or violations of a child’s rights, the Department acts as a vital link in the international coordination required for the child’s protection.
- Support for Root-Seeking and Heritage Visits: A significant aspect of the 2026-2030 phase is supporting adoptees of Vietnamese origin living abroad who wish to search for their roots or visit their homeland. The Department of Foreign Affairs is responsible for coordinating the provision of information and documents and assisting with the practicalities of these visits.
- International Communication: The Department leverages its diplomatic channels to disseminate information about Hai Phong's adoption practices, ensuring international partners and foreign adoption offices are informed about the city’s commitment to legality and transparency.
- Professionalism in Communication: To support these activities, the Department of Foreign Affairs has standardized its own communication protocols, as seen in the recently issued Regulation on Speaking and Providing Information to the Press (Decision 145/QD-NV). This ensures that all information regarding sensitive international matters, including adoption, is provided accurately and through official channels.
Embracing the Fourth Industrial Revolution, Hai Phong is integrating digital transformation into adoption management. The plan involves digitizing all adoption records and establishing a secure database that connects and shares information with the National Population Database. This technological leap allows for more efficient tracking of cases and ensures that data is "correct, sufficient, clean, and live" for policy-making and international reporting.
The implementation of the Toolkit in Hai Phong carries profound significance for the city’s and the nation’s foreign affairs strategy:
- Upholding International Prestige: By strictly adhering to the 1993 Hague Convention through the Toolkit, Vietnam reaffirms its image as a law-abiding and responsible member of the global community. This fosters trust with international partners and foreign governments.
- Strengthening Diplomatic Ties: Effective adoption management reduces legal friction with other nations and creates opportunities for bilateral cooperation in social welfare and child protection.
- Connecting with the Overseas Vietnamese Community: By facilitating root-seeking and heritage visits, the city strengthens the emotional and cultural ties between overseas Vietnamese adoptees and their motherland, a key objective of modern foreign policy.
- Creating a Transparent Environment for Foreign Agencies: Clear regulations and digital tracking provide a predictable and professional environment for foreign adoption offices operating in Vietnam, encouraging legitimate international cooperation.
As Hai Phong embarks on this five-year journey, the synchronized effort of its departments—spearheaded by Justice and supported by Foreign Affairs—is set to redefine adoption practices. By combining legal rigor with humanitarian support and technological innovation, Hai Phong is not only protecting its children but also building a bridge of trust and cooperation to the rest of the world. The city is committed to a final review of these efforts by December 2030 to ensure the long-term sustainability of these reforms.