Protecting the nation is a sacred duty of every citizen. A prosperous and strong country ensures the well-being of its people. In addition to the military and police forces, the militia and self-defense forces also significantly contribute to maintaining social order and security. The Militia and Self-Defense Law 2009 stipulates several policies for participation in the militia and self-defense forces.
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Militia (Dan Quan) and Self-defense (Tu Ve) Forces
The militia and self-defense forces are mass armed forces that do not disengage from production and work. They are components of the people’s armed forces of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. Their role includes protecting the Communist Party, the government, the lives and property of the people, and the assets of the State. They serve as the core force, along with the entire population, in combating enemies at localities and grassroots levels in times of war.
These forces are organized at the commune, ward, and commune-level town levels and are referred to as "militia." When organized within State agencies, political organizations, socio-political organizations, public service providers, or economic organizations, they are referred to as "self-defense units."
Participation Criteria:
Male citizens from 18 to 45 years old and female citizens from 18 to 40 years old are obligated to participate in the militia and self-defense forces. Voluntary participation extends up to 50 years for males and up to 45 years for females.
Policies for Militia:
- Receive daily allowances not lower than a coefficient of 0.08 of the general minimum wage;- If performing duties from 10 PM to 6 AM or in hazardous environments, they are entitled to policies as stipulated in the Labor Code;- If duties prevent daily commuting, they will be provided with accommodation, support for transportation, or reimbursement for travel costs for round trips; meal allowances are also provided.
Policies for Self-Defense Forces (excluding marine self-defense units):
- Full salary is maintained along with all welfare benefits, travel allowances, and travel expenses according to current policies.
Commendation Policies:
Officers, soldiers, and units of the militia and self-defense forces with achievements in task execution; agencies, organizations, and individuals contributing to the organization and activities of the militia and self-defense forces shall be commended as per the regulations of the Law on Emulation and Commendation.
Disciplinary Policies:
Officers and soldiers of the militia and self-defense forces violating discipline or laws while on duty shall be subject to disciplinary actions, administrative penalties, or criminal prosecution depending on the nature and severity of the violations. If damages are caused, compensation must be made in accordance with the law.
Refer to the 2009 Militia and Self-Defense Law, effective from July 1, 2010.
