Legal experts suggested enhancing the involvement of social organisations in the National Assembly law-making process during a workshop held in northern Vinh Phuc province on January 30.

Articles 9 and 28 in the 2013 Constitution encourage the State to create favourable conditions for the Vietnam Fatherland Front (VFF), its member organisations and other societies to get involved in the design of legislation.

The feedback and response mechanisms constitute an important channel and effective tool for social organisations to voice public concerns over pressing issues such as land property, environmental protection, social welfare, and gender equality.

This will also provide a means for people, especially those from vulnerable groups, to join and examine the implementation of socio-economic policies.

Pham Thi Hoai Giang, deputy director of the Governance for Inclusive Growth (GIG) project highlighted the important role of non-governmental and social organisations in Vietnam in policy making and supporting the Government’s activities.

Participants also pointed out current shortcomings, such as a lack of clear and convenient mechanisms for social organisations to provide feedback on draft laws and normative legal documents.

Recommendations included improving the legal framework, increasing the transparency and publicity of legislative activities, and creating equal opportunities for social organisations to engage in the field.-VNA