The Decree, issued by the Government on March 1, provides for the organization of belief rites, religious organizations, religious activities of believers, members of religious sects, religious dignitaries and organizations, and State agencies’ responsibilities for management of belief and religious activities.
According to this Decree, all cases of bestowal, ordainment, appointment or election of religious dignitaries, priests or monks involving foreign elements require prior consent of the Government Committee for Religions. This Committee shall also approve the invitation of foreign organizations or individuals into Vietnam for international cooperation activities related to religion; the participation of Vietnamese religious organizations or individuals in religious activities overseas, as well as the participation of Vietnamese religious dignitaries, monks, priests and nuns in religious training courses overseas.
To preach religions in Vietnam, foreign religious dignitaries, monks, priests and nuns must also file written request to, and get approval from, the said Committee.-