[vufo]

The conventional system of socio-economic development planning in Vietnam is generally characterized by a top-down approach; i.e. annual and longer term targets for planned development achievements are formulated at the central level and trickle down to the decentralized levels of provinces, districts and communes. The system implies a lack of participation from the population at grass roots level and thus a lack of inclusion of their perceived needs. Planning authorities on all levels are increasingly aware of the issue and have introduced reform measures.