Key milestones in Vietnam’s strategic development thinking: from “Doi Moi” (1986) to the 14th Congress of the CPV (2026)

This article analyzes the evolution of Vietnam’s strategic thinking from the inception of Doi Moi at the 6th National Congress (1986) to the Party documents of the 14th Congress (2026). It conceptualizes evolution as a long-term transformation of a single policy paradigm within the context of domestic institutional change and international integration. Drawing on a historical-policy analysis of Party documents, state texts, and scholarly works from both domestic and international sources, the study identifies decisive milestones that reshaped policy goals, instruments, and priorities: the stabilization-growth phase (1986–1990); institutionalization and integration (1991–2010); a turn toward sustainable development, innovation, and non-traditional security (2011–2025); and the 2026–2045 vision centering on strategic autonomy and three breakthrough areas — institutions, human capital, and infrastructure. The findings highlight regularities and lessons in renewing leadership thinking and provide a historical-strategic framework useful for policy design and further research.