Abandon the "lifetime employment" mindset.

Two issues that have recently attracted public attention are the government's official proposal to evaluate civil servants and public employees quantitatively, based on KPIs (Key Performance Indicators); and the Ministry of Interior's affirmation that it is necessary to "abolish lifetime employment" to create opportunities for talented individuals to join the public sector.

Our country is entering a new stage of development, requiring a streamlined, efficient state apparatus that can quickly adapt to socio -economic and technological changes. Changing the mindset regarding "lifetime employment" and incorporating KPIs into performance evaluations is an opportunity to streamline the system, attract talented individuals, and create a driving force for innovation in the public sector.

The Ministry of Interior proposes applying KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) to state officials and civil servants, shifting the evaluation process from qualitative to quantitative, based on specific results and products linked to their job positions. In other words, those who perform well will be recognized; those who perform poorly will be reprimanded, or even dismissed if the behavior recurs. However, KPIs are only a tool; the core issue remains the people and the organizational culture. Therefore, a change in mindset is necessary from within: officials must be servants of society, accountable to the people. Evaluations should no longer be merely formal "self-criticism," but must be linked to practical data, with post-auditing and clear disciplinary measures.

Simultaneously, the legal system needs corresponding amendments. As the Ministry of Interior has proposed, the Law on Cadres and Civil Servants should include provisions on a mechanism for screening, disciplining, and dismissing employees based on KPI evaluation results. At the same time, the right to appeal must be ensured, and the evaluation process must be transparent to prevent abuse of power or retaliation against individuals who are not "in the good graces of their superiors." Furthermore, a transparent and competitive mechanism for recruiting and utilizing talented individuals is needed. Only when opportunities to enter the public sector are no longer based on connections and acquaintances, but on competence and KPI performance, will it truly pave the way for enthusiastic young people to participate in the national governance apparatus.

Abandoning the "lifetime employment" mindset and applying KPIs in evaluating officials and civil servants is not merely a technical administrative improvement, but a systemic transformation that deeply impacts public service culture and the organizational foundation of the state apparatus. A comprehensive and synchronized design is needed, encompassing everything from legislation and technical tools to officials' perceptions and societal expectations.

TRAN PHUOC

Source: https://baovinhlong.com.vn/thoi-su/thoi-su-goc-nhin/202505/bo-tu-duy-bien-che-suot-doi-8be09f5/