HANOI, December 11, 2014 -- I am pleased to join this important event today organized by the Ministry of Justice to receive social organizations and other stakeholders’ inputs on the draft Civil Code.  This event follows lively discussions with the Ministry of Justice and social organizations on the draft civil code in Hanoi and Hai Phong recently.  USAID’s Governance for Inclusive Growth Program is honored to support the Ministry of Justice’s efforts in identifying issues on citizens and organizations rights for inclusion in the draft Civil Code.    

We are pleased that the drafting committee’s welcomed inputs from citizens, especially from the most disadvantaged groups, during this process.  Through their participation to date, I understand that some important issues have already been identified.  These issues have the potential to further women’s empowerment, mainstream gender equality, improve legal access for citizens, and protect the fundamental rights of all citizens.  These are important issues that, when addressed in the new law, will allow all Vietnamese citizens to benefit from Vietnam’s development and growth.

These social organizations consultation meetings add to another series of workshops organized by the Ministry of Justice on the regulatory impact of the Civil Code, which enabled outside stakeholders, including independent researchers and social organizations, businesses to discuss the pros and cons of different policy options.  They are helping to build an important foundation of trust between citizens and the Vietnamese Government in policy dialogues and legal drafting processes.  

Working with Social Organizations is important to improved governance and to this program, which is why I am pleased to announce the launching of our grants program yesterday.  It is an open call for ideas and proposals from non-government entities such as social organizations, business associations, and research institutions. The program is asking organizations to send us their ideas for projects three areas: 1)improving the quality of Vietnam’s laws and regulations; 2) strengthening oversight, accountability, and transparency of public agencies; and 3) assisting disadvantaged populations to participate in policy making and governance arenas.  More information is available on USAID/Vietnam’s website and Facebook pages.

In closing, I would like to encourage the Drafting Committee to consider the inputs from social organizations as you work to finalize the Civil Code.  Clearly, this forum is part of trend towards greater citizen participation in policy making processes. These efforts in turn are already contributing to the increased transparency and accountability the government is seeking to the benefit of all citizens of Vietnam.

Thank you very much for your attention.  I wish you good health and success.

(Note: These remarks are as prepared.)