Stepping up the use of data and technology in election administration
Amid the ongoing digital transformation, the application of data systems and modern technology in the upcoming elections is expected to reduce manual errors, accelerate reporting and enhance transparency, while maintaining strict safeguards for information security.
As preparations advance for the election of deputies to the 16th National Assembly and People’s Councils for the 2026–2031 term, digital tools are playing an increasingly central role in election administration.
According to a Government report on election preparations, the Ministry of Public Security has issued regulations governing the use of the national population database and the VNeID digital identity platform in compiling voter lists, printing voter cards and operating voter management software. The ministry has also coordinated nationwide training for local authorities on election-related procedures.
To date, 3,320 out of 3,321 commune- and ward-level units have applied the voter management software in compiling voter lists, with the exception of the Hoang Sa special administrative zone. More than 78.5 million eligible voters — accounting for 99.48 percent — have been assigned to polling stations through the system.
The small proportion of voters not yet fully updated in the system largely involves cases where a deceased voter’s family has not completed official death registration procedures, or where voters are in the process of changing their designated polling location.
Integrating digital identity and election platforms
The Ministry of Public Security affirmed that it will continue close coordination with the National Assembly Office to connect the election information portal with the national electronic identification and authentication system. Since December 17, 2025, voters and candidates have been able to log in using their VNeID accounts.
The election portal is also being linked to the national population database, enabling candidates to automatically populate required declaration forms using verified personal data. In addition, a feature is being developed to synchronize candidate information for public display on the VNeID application, enhancing transparency and public access to information.
Alongside measures to ensure public order and safety during the election, authorities are implementing robust efforts to safeguard cybersecurity, information security and communications security.
New regulatory framework supports digital transformation
The Ministry of Home Affairs has issued Circular No. 21/2025/TT-BNV, providing professional guidance on election operations under a two-tier local government model consisting of provinces and communes. The circular introduces several new provisions aimed at strengthening the application of science, technology and digital transformation in election management.
Under the guidance, the use of information technology must align with local conditions and the implementation capacity of grassroots election officials. At the same time, strict compliance is required with regulations on network information security, personal data protection and election law to ensure the confidentiality of voter data and election results.
Tạ Thị Yên, Deputy Head of the National Assembly Deputies Affairs Committee and Standing Deputy Chief of the Office of the National Election Council, emphasized that technology is effective only when supported by standardized procedures, uniform templates, clearly defined access rights and strong information security safeguards.
She also underscored the need for contingency plans in case technical systems encounter disruptions. Technology, she noted, can support election administration but cannot replace the legal framework and statutory procedures governing the process.
Building digital capacity at the grassroots level
To ensure the effective use of digital tools, comprehensive digital skills training for grassroots officials is essential. Timely technical support mechanisms must also be in place to prevent technology from becoming an operational burden.
With careful planning, clear regulations and adequate training, the expanded use of data and technology is expected to modernize election administration, improve efficiency and transparency, and strengthen public confidence in the electoral process.
