Vietnam Evolving

Interesting development in Vietnam as citizens debate the role and effectiveness of their government. As in China, the internet provides a medium for communication and information. My long-time interest in Vietnam will keep me following the debate to see where it leads.

I greatly admire Vietnamese dilligence, endurance and energy. They have maintained a distinct culture and identity for centuries, often against their great neighbor, China. For this reason I have often thought that the architects of a truly nationalist movement could also forge a truly popular regime. So far they have not and perhaps they never will. But circumstances may create opportuniies for change in that direction. The current debate is a small spark that can ignite broader discussion and change. I hope so.

Read the last sentence and remember how Vietnam defeated the United States. (Hint: it involved patience and long-range thinking.)