Vietnam’s Diaspora: A Growing Force in National Development
The “Xuân Quê Hương” (Homeland Spring) program 2026 underscores a pivotal shift in Vietnam’s approach to its overseas community. No longer viewed solely as a source of remittances, Vietnamese expatriates are increasingly recognized as vital contributors to the nation’s scientific, technological, and economic advancement.
The Rising Economic Impact of the Diaspora
Vietnamese citizens abroad represent a significant economic asset. Recent data indicates that remittances from the diaspora exceeded $10 billion in 2025. However, the focus is expanding beyond financial contributions. The Vietnamese government is actively seeking to leverage the expertise and networks of its global community.
Harnessing Intellectual Capital: A New Era of Collaboration
More than 650,000 overseas Vietnamese are highly skilled professionals, including experts in cutting-edge fields like artificial intelligence, semiconductors, nuclear energy, and quantum physics. These individuals, often employed by leading technology companies and research institutions worldwide, are seen as crucial to bridging Vietnam’s technological gap.
The government is fostering connections between the diaspora and domestic entities, aiming to facilitate technology transfer, knowledge sharing, and collaborative research projects. This includes supporting innovation networks, with 10 currently operating abroad and encompassing approximately 2,000 experts and over 30 professional organizations.
Beyond Technology: Policy Advice and Investment
The role of the diaspora extends beyond technological expertise. Vietnamese expatriates are being encouraged to contribute to policy development, offering insights into best practices in digital governance and innovation strategies. They are also expected to play a key role in attracting foreign investment and supporting Vietnamese startups through venture capital, and mentorship.
Strengthening Cultural Ties and National Identity
Programs like “Xuân Quê Hương” are instrumental in maintaining cultural connections and fostering a sense of national identity among Vietnamese communities abroad. These events provide opportunities for expatriates to engage with Vietnamese leaders, learn about national development plans, and share their perspectives.
The program, held from February 6th to 9th in Hanoi and Ninh Binh province, emphasizes the theme of “Vietnam’s Aspirations: Peace and Prosperity,” highlighting the nation’s commitment to sustainable development and international integration.
The 14th Party Congress and the Diaspora’s Role
The current push to engage the diaspora aligns with the resolutions of the 14th National Party Congress, which identified science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation as key drivers of Vietnam’s future growth. The government recognizes that the diaspora’s contributions are essential to achieving these goals.
FAQ: Vietnam and its Diaspora
Q: What is the “Xuân Quê Hương” program?
A: It’s an annual event designed to strengthen ties between the Vietnamese diaspora and their homeland, fostering cultural exchange and collaboration on national development initiatives.
Q: How many Vietnamese people live abroad?
A: Approximately 6.5 million Vietnamese people reside overseas.
Q: What specific areas is Vietnam hoping the diaspora will contribute to?
A: Science, technology, innovation, investment, education, and promoting Vietnam’s image internationally.
Q: What is the Vietnamese government doing to encourage diaspora involvement?
A: Creating platforms for engagement, facilitating knowledge transfer, and fostering collaboration between expatriates and domestic organizations.
Did you know? The Vietnamese government is actively seeking input from the diaspora on developing legal frameworks and governance models for the digital economy.
Pro Tip: Vietnamese expatriates interested in contributing to national development should explore opportunities through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and relevant industry associations.
We encourage you to share your thoughts on Vietnam’s evolving relationship with its diaspora in the comments below. Explore our other articles on Vietnamese economic development and international relations for further insights.
