The 16th National Assembly passed the new law on April 23, 2026.

The law was officially announced on April 26, 2026, and will start on January 1, 2027.

The new law will replace the old one from 2016 and help the government's policies and digital transformation.

The new law has six big changes.

The law now recognizes and controls online religious activities.

The Party General Secretary visited a temple in India.

The law now includes online religious activities.

For the first time, the law regulates online religious activities.

The law defines online religious activities and how they are managed.

The law makes it clear how online religious activities are controlled.

The law also makes internet companies help remove bad content.

The law prohibits using technology to break laws on belief and religion.

The law gives more power to local governments.

The district-level People's Committees no longer have some powers.

The change helps Vietnam's new local government model.

The Ministry of Ethnic and Religious Affairs now has more responsibility.

Some powers are given to commune-level administrations.

Commune-level authorities can now approve some activities.

The change helps local autonomy and governance.

The law changes from 'pre-approval' to 'post-supervision'.

The law removes some detailed rules and gives flexibility.

Some administrative procedures are now simpler.

Some processes no longer need approval, just registration or notification.

Religious activities at belief establishments no longer need approval.

The law removes the need for judicial background records in some cases.

The law has new enforcement measures.

The law introduces new measures to promote compliance.

Approvals for religious gatherings can be revoked if they are not used.

Certificates for religious organizations can be revoked if they are inactive.

The law introduces suspension measures.

Religious officials can be suspended for violating the law.

The law makes it easier to register personnel.

If positions are elected, organizations can submit notifications.

The change helps remove procedural difficulties for religious organizations.

The law recognizes the role of local communities.

The law adds 'local communities' to its definitions.

Belief is now defined to include peace of mind for communities.

Local communities will select representatives for management boards.

The process will be coordinated by commune-level People's Committees.

The law harmonizes the legal system.

The law removes overlaps in the old legislation.

The law uses a new legislative technique for consistency.

Violations will be handled under existing laws.

The approach creates a comprehensive legal framework.

The 2026 Law on Belief and Religion is a big step forward.

The law broadens the legal framework and equips authorities with stronger tools.

Phan Hong Thuy