In 2024, the administrative reform (AR) efforts of the Haiphong Department of Foreign Affairs (DoFA) were comprehensively promoted, becoming a significant driver for improving the efficiency and effectiveness of state management and meeting the satisfaction of citizens and enterprises. The relentless efforts of the leadership and the collective staff of the Department have yielded many positive results, contributing to remarkable and comprehensive advancements in administrative reform.
I. ACHIEVEMENTS
1. Results of the 2024 AR Index Ranking
- Ranked 3rd among 20 departments and sectors in 2024 AR Index
In 2024, under the determined leadership and guidance of the department's head, and through the concerted efforts of its advisory and operational units, the DoFA rose by 9 ranks compared to the previous year, achieving 3rd place among 20 departments and sectors in the city's AR Index. Furthermore, the department ranked 2nd in the expert assessment by the City's AR Evaluation Council, with 8 out of 9 criteria scoring a perfect 100%.
2. Specific Achievements
Leadership and Governance – A Highlight in AR
In 2024, the DoFA focused on institutional and judicial reforms while enhancing the quality of legal regulations within its management scope. This was achieved through the development and implementation of specific, effective plans, such as the 2024 AR Implementation Plan and the Public Communication Plan for AR. Tasks were clearly delineated with specific outputs tied to departmental responsibilities. Key focus areas included:
- Enhancing governance efficiency and effectiveness.
- Building e-government and digital government, aligned with the development of a smart city.
- Streamlining organizational structures and improving the quality of civil servants and public employees.
Innovative Models and Initiatives
The DoFA recognized 10 grassroots-level initiatives in 2024, with 6 directly contributing to AR. Notably, one initiative, "Developing an Information System and Database for Foreign Affairs Management," was identified as having high applicability and scalability across the city.
Administrative Procedure Reform – A Breakthrough Focus
In 2024, the DoFA implemented a comprehensive plan for administrative procedure control and the "one-stop-shop" mechanism. Key achievements included:
- Developing internal electronic processes for international conference and workshop licensing, ensuring 100% procedural compliance.
- Reducing administrative costs by 36% and achieving perfect scores in AR assessment.
- Processing 32 international conference/workshop licenses with 100% completion ahead of schedule, with all procedures executed as Level 4 online public services.
Digital Transformation and E-Government
The DoFA successfully:
- Maintained stable operations of LAN, WAN, and internet systems.
- Provided over 2,000 multilingual updates on its website, promoting Haiphong's socio-economic events in five languages: Vietnamese, English, Japanese, Chinese, and Korean.
Despite notable achievements, the DoFA faces significant challenges, including:
- Ensuring Consistency in Digital Government Implementation
- Integration and synchronization of information systems remain difficult.
- Technical infrastructure and IT skills of personnel require further enhancement.
- Streamlining Personnel While Maintaining Efficiency
- Balancing workforce reductions with the need for high-quality performance poses significant challenges.
- Improving Staff Quality
- Enhancing professional skills, digital transformation proficiency, and international integration capabilities remain critical but difficult in the short term.
Conclusion and Future Directions
With strong leadership from the city government and commitment from the department's management, these challenges can be overcome. Moving forward, the DoFA will focus on:
- Refining organizational structures for effectiveness.
- Advancing comprehensive AR and digital transformation efforts.
- Promoting innovative management practices through digital technologies.
- Enhancing professional development for its personnel.
By maintaining high determination and a clear strategy, the DoFA aims to solidify its leading role in AR, contributing to the establishment of a modern, transparent, and effective administration for Haiphong.