A Comparative Study of Ho Chi Minh's Anti-Corruption Ideology and International Standards

Abstract

Corruption, a multifaceted and severe global issue, impedes economic development and undermines public trust in governance. The principles of revolutionary ethics, integrity, and public responsibility advocated by Ho Chi Minh continue to be relevant in Vietnam’s ongoing fight against corruption. This study aims to identify similarities and differences to propose highly effective measures tailored explicitly for Vietnam. The research uses document analysis and comparative methods to examine Ho Chi Minh’s writings, political documents, international conventions such as the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC), and academic studies. The findings highlight the central role of revolutionary ethics, transparency, independent oversight, and strict law enforcement in Ho Chi Minh’s anti-corruption efforts. The emphasis on independent oversight underscores the need for checks and balances. These practices align with international standards that stress ethical public service, transparent information dissemination, independent auditing, and robust legal frameworks. The study suggests that by integrating Ho Chi Minh’s ethical principles into Vietnam’s anti-corruption strategy and harmonizing them with international legal and institutional frameworks, the country can strengthen its anti-corruption efforts and contribute to global initiatives.

Received: 20 August 2024 / Accepted: 26 February 2025 / Published: 02 March 2025