The Hanoi Party Committee's Commission for Propaganda and Mass Mobilization, the Hanoi Journalists' Association, and Tuoi Tre Thu Do (Capital Youth) Newspaper on March 24 organized a workshop to discuss media's role in shaping a civilized and elegant Hanoi.

Nguyen Huy Cuong, Deputy Head of the Commission for Propaganda and Mass Mobilization, said that as the thousand-year-old capital and the heart of Vietnam, Hanoi has always received special attention from the Party and the State.

The city is expected to set an example in cultural and human development, he said.

According to Cuong, the late General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong at the 17th Congress of the Hanoi Party Committee urged the city to build a modern, law-abiding, and culturally sophisticated society that truly represents the nation's traditions.

Cuong affirmed that Hanoi has always prioritized developing a civilized and elegant population as a key cultural strategy.

This effort is deeply rooted in the rich heritage of Thang Long - Hanoi and is considered a crucial driving force for the capital's progress, he said.

Hanoi's media agencies play an essential role in promoting this vision by raising awareness about civic responsibilities, encouraging refined social behaviors, and preserving the city's unique cultural identity, he said.

"Many media programs and special columns have been highly effective in fostering a sense of civic duty and shaping a modern yet traditionally rich society," Cuong said.

He highlighted the Hanoi Party Committee's annual Journalism Awards on "Cultural development and creation of a civilized and elegant Hanoi", the two behavioral codes established by the municipal government – one for public employees and another for public spaces – have significantly improved public awareness and behavior.

Cuong expressed confidence that with input from experienced journalists, media experts, and dedicated professionals, the discussion would generate innovative ideas and practical solutions for the media's role in this endeavor.

Nguyen Manh Hung, Editor-in-Chief of Tuoi Tre Thu Do Newspaper, welcomed the gathering, acknowledging that Hanoi is not only the political, economic, and cultural center of Vietnam but also a symbol of national heritage.

"Throughout history, Hanoians are known for their grace, intelligence, kindness, and responsibility. These qualities define the city's character and are a source of pride for its people," he said.

He emphasized that the discussion was an opportunity to evaluate the media's influence in shaping Hanoi's cultural values and to explore new approaches to effective communication in the digital era.

Nguyen Ngoc Thanh, Head of the Digital Media Department at Nhan Dan (People) Newspaper, presented a report on how the agency has led efforts to promote Hanoi's cultural values.

"It is not enough to simply expose and condemn inappropriate behaviors, as changing public awareness is equally important. Journalism should continuously highlight good examples and positive actions to encourage better social behavior," Thanh said.

Colonel and journalist Do Phu Tho, an expert from the Military Commission's Steering Committee 35, stressed that the public increasingly relies on the media for guidance.

"Over the years, journalism has played a vital role in shaping public opinion. Hanoi's press has been instrumental in implementing Directive No.30 of the municipal Party Committee, which focuses on fostering a civilized and elegant society," he said.

Phung Cong Suong, Editor-in-Chief of Tien Phong (Vanguard) Newspaper, pointed out that workplaces and public spaces are where Hanoi's cultural standards are most evident.

"Hanoi's cultural identity belongs to the entire nation. How people interact in the capital leaves a lasting impression, especially on international visitors. Promoting public etiquette and encouraging positive social behaviors should be a continuous effort by the media," he said.

Kieu Thanh Hung, Permanent Vice President of the Hanoi Journalists' Association, concluded the discussion by thanking the media professionals, cultural researchers, and experts for their contributions.

"The insights shared today reflect a deep sense of responsibility and commitment to preserving Hanoi's cultural values. The media plays a crucial role not just in reporting but also in guiding, educating, and inspiring positive change," he said.

He emphasized that journalism must continue to uphold the values of truth, kindness, and beauty while countering misinformation that threatens efforts to build a more civilized and elegant Hanoi.