Urban Development in Vietnam: the Rise of Local Authorities Resources, limits, and evolution of local governance

Local authorities are playing an increasingly influential role in the exponential economic growth and development of Vietnam and its cities. They have now become key actors playing pivotal roles in the delivery of most public urban services (water, sanitation, waste management, public transport, etc.). This study provides a detailed analysis of how the Vietnamese local authorities operate and how they manage the main urban public services. It examines their roles, the limits of their powers, the institutional, financial and operational instruments underpinning their action, as well as recent and future developments. Based on an in-depth field study, this publication makes essential reading for anyone interested in Vietnam’s urban development and who wishes to gain an insight into the issues, risks and constraints involved.