In 2016 UNESCO added the Practices Related to the Mother Goddesses of Three Realms to its Representative List, and 2026 marks the ten‑year anniversary. The listing has drawn new attention to Vietnam’s Mother Goddess worship.

Many practitioners have misunderstood this inscription, thinking that UNESCO’s recognition gives special status or prestige to individual spirit mediums. Nguyen Van Thu, honorary chairman of the Association for the Preservation and Promotion of the Mother Goddess Worship Heritage in Ninh Binh Province, says this belief is inaccurate.

The misunderstanding has contributed to a growing focus on appearances. Some spirit mediums now organize costly ceremonies, purchase elaborate offerings and burn oversized paper votive objects to display wealth and influence.

Thu also warns that worshippers can be exploited. Exaggerated spiritual pronouncements and suggestions that large financial contributions are needed to receive blessings have become more common.

Because there is no single centralized organization overseeing the tradition, Thu and other leaders have called for a community‑driven code of conduct. Such a code could help limit extravagance and protect the spiritual values of the Mother Goddess worship.