Architecture Law 2019 – A Step Forward in the Management and Development of Vietnam’s Architecture Industry

1. Introduction

On June 13, 2019, the National Assembly officially passed the Architecture Law 2019, marking an important step forward in completing the legal framework and orienting the development of the country’s architecture industry. The Architecture Law 2019 will come into effect from July 1, 2020, with many notable new points, reflecting a strategic vision and catching up with international integration trends in the field of architecture.

2. Key Content

One of the important contents of the Law is the requirement that architectural works must express national cultural identity. Article 5 of the Law has legalized this requirement, affirming that national cultural identity in architecture includes elements such as typical characteristics, distinctive imprints of natural conditions, socio-economy, culture, art, customs and practices of ethnic groups, construction techniques, and building materials. The harmonious combination of these elements will create a unique style of Vietnamese architecture.

To ensure the quality of architectural works, the Law also strictly regulates architectural practice certificates. According to Article 21, there are 3 subjects that are required to have a practice certificate, including individuals who assume the role of chief architectural designer, individuals who are in charge of architectural expertise in a practicing organization, and architects practicing as individuals. The architectural practice certificate is valid for 10 years and is only granted to those who meet all 3 conditions on qualifications, experience, and exam results.

A new point of the Law is the regulation on the National Architectural Advisory Council. Unlike other national councils that operate regularly, this Council is only established on a case-by-case basis when it is necessary to advise the Prime Minister on the field of architecture and the architecture of some important works. Council members work on a part-time basis and are responsible before the law for the content of their advice.

The Architecture Law 2019 also pays attention to the issue of responding to climate change and natural disasters. Article 11 encourages the application of specific architectural design templates for works in areas that are prone to natural disasters, ensuring the requirements of adapting to climate change and preventing and combating natural disasters. This is a premise for architects and planners to research and design works that are suitable to the conditions of each region, minimizing the damage caused by natural disasters.

In addition, the Law also expands opportunities for foreign architects to practice in Vietnam, with 2 main conditions being having a recognized practice certificate and complying with Vietnamese law and professional rules. This regulation reflects the spirit of market opening and creates a fair competitive environment for both domestic and foreign architects.

3. Conclusion

Overall, the Architecture Law 2019 has marked an important step forward in the management and development of Vietnam’s architecture industry. With the introduction of new regulations on cultural identity, practice certificates, architectural consulting, disaster response, and international integration, the Law promises to promote sustainable development and enhance the position of the country’s architecture in the coming time.