Decentralization of environmental and resource management in Hanoi

The decision stipulates the delegation of authority to commune-level People's Committees to execute certain state management functions related to environmental protection, nature conservation, biodiversity, hydrometeorology, and climate change, which previously fell under the jurisdiction of the provincial-level People's Committee as prescribed in applicable legal documents.

The decision applies to the Hanoi People's Committee and its affiliated specialized agencies; commune-level People's Committees and their respective professional units; as well as relevant organizations and individuals.

The Hanoi People's Committee has empowered commune-level People's Committees to perform several tasks and functions under the city's state management responsibilities, including five administrative procedures related to environmental protection, eight regarding nature conservation and biodiversity, one for hydrometeorology, and one for climate change.

Administrative procedure regulations

Commune-level People's Committees will handle public and internal administrative procedures that fall under the purview of the Hanoi People's Committee in accordance with the delegated mandates.

The Department of Agriculture and Environment will lead, in coordination with commune-level People's Committees, the review and development of a list of administrative procedures and internal processes to be submitted to competent authorities for official promulgation in accordance with regulations.

The Hanoi People's Committee has tasked commune-level People's Committees to fully implement the delegated responsibilities, ensuring compliance with proper jurisdiction, protocols, and processes. Local authorities are required to proactively resolve matters within their authority and coordinate with the Department of Agriculture and Environment and relevant localities when inter-commune issues arise.

The Department of Agriculture and Environment will provide direction, coordination, and professional guidance, while regularly organizing training and capacity-building for commune-level People's Committees to carry out the delegated mandates. The department will also conduct periodic or extraordinary reviews and evaluations of the decentralization results in accordance with regulations.