Decision No. 174/QD-TLD on introducing the regulations of Trade Unions of Vietnam

1. Affirmation of the political and social role of the Vietnam Trade Union: 

• Recognized as the sole and legitimate representative organization of the working class and laborers in Vietnam. 
• Operates under the direct leadership of the Communist Party of Vietnam. 

2. Standardization of the trade union organizational system into four levels: 

• Includes: Grassroots trade union → Immediate superior level → Provincial/sectoral-level union → Vietnam General Confederation of Labour (VGCL). 
• Responsibilities and functions of each level are clearly defined. 

3. Expanded eligibility for union membership: 

• Any Vietnamese worker aged 15 or above, legally employed and voluntarily applying, is eligible. 
• Reflects the openness, inclusiveness, and democratic nature of trade unions in the new context. 

4. Clearer definition of members’ rights and obligations: 

• Rights include: protection of legitimate interests, participation in union activities, election and candidacy rights, access to social welfare and support. 
• Obligations include: compliance with the Charter, implementation of resolutions, paying union dues, and engaging in union activities. 

5. Strengthening organizational discipline, autonomy, and accountability: 

• Emphasizes the principles of democratic centralism and collective leadership with individual accountability. 
• Requires regular meetings, self-assessment, and internal evaluations of both members and union organizations. 

6. Adaptation to international integration and labor institution reforms: 

• The Charter is designed to align with Vietnam’s international commitments, including new-generation FTAs such as CPTPP and EVFTA, ensuring consistency with global labor standards.