Hanoi, March 16, 2026 – The Europe Today: Vietnam’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (MoCST) has issued a Code of Conduct for Cultural Behaviour in the Digital Environment, aimed at promoting responsible online engagement and curbing the spread of misinformation across digital platforms.
According to the ministry, the code—released earlier this month—seeks to guide individuals and organisations participating in digital activities in accordance with Vietnamese cultural, ethical and legal standards. It also aims to foster a healthy, safe and culturally respectful online space, while encouraging the sharing of positive and creative content that reflects the nation’s cultural identity.
The code applies to five key groups, including individuals; organisations and businesses providing social networking services and digital platforms, both domestic and international; internet service providers; press agencies, radio and television broadcasters, media companies, advertising service providers and performing arts organisations; as well as other agencies, organisations and businesses.
Under the new guidelines, individuals and organisations are required to take responsibility for the information they share online and to strengthen coordination with regulatory authorities in identifying and addressing violations.
The code emphasises the responsibility of social media users, advising them to use their real names or legitimate trademarks when operating online, carefully consider before posting personal information about others and share information only from clear and reliable sources. It also encourages users to limit the spread of unverified content and to promptly report fake news or false information to platforms or relevant authorities.
Participants in digital spaces are urged to comply with Vietnamese laws and respect the legitimate rights and interests of organisations and individuals. The guidelines further call for civilised and respectful communication, stressing the importance of preserving Vietnam’s cultural identity, moral values and traditions while also respecting cultural diversity, regional differences, ethnic communities and religions.
The code also outlines standards for online communication, including the use of respectful language, avoiding insults and refraining from inciting violence or discrimination based on region, religion or gender.
For individuals with significant influence in the digital environment, the regulation highlights their social responsibility. Influencers are encouraged to produce and share educational and culturally meaningful content, set positive examples in complying with the law and avoid exploiting public trust for personal gain. They are also required to disclose sponsorships and advertisements transparently and ensure promotional content is truthful and compliant with legal regulations.
Meanwhile, social media platforms and digital service providers are requested to clearly publish their terms of service, proactively detect and prevent fraudulent activities and the spread of fake news, and provide tools enabling users to easily report violations. They are also expected to implement measures to protect children online and cooperate with authorities in addressing unlawful content.
The code further emphasises that discussions and debates in cyberspace should be conducted respectfully, avoiding offensive language, personal attacks, defamation or the use of content that promotes hatred, violence or discrimination.
For press and media organisations, advertising businesses and performing arts entities, the ministry calls for the dissemination of accurate information, responsible public communication and the active promotion of positive cultural values, alongside stronger efforts to combat misinformation in the digital environment.
