In 1992, a new state constitution was approved replacing the 1975 version. The Socialist Republic of Vietnam is a single-party state with direct control being exercised by the Communist Party of Vietnam.  The nation is governed officially through the National Assembly of Vietnam, a unicameral legislature composed of 498 members. Without the endorsement of the Communist Party, political parties cannot contest elections. However, an increasing inclination towards a more capitalist state is clearly prevalent within Vietnamese politics, reflecting the change occurring across other communist-led nations such as China and the former Soviet Union.

Both the executive and judicial branches of government are subordinate to the National Assembly. A council of ministers, derived from the National Assembly, carry out many functions of government. The Head of State is also the Commander in Chief of the armed forces, and the Head of Government, the Prime Minister, presides over a council of 26 ministries and commissions.

The combined military services of Vietnam are called The Vietnam People's Army (VPA). This military group has substantial involvement in Vietnamese society in the provision of transport, agriculture, education, telecommunications and industry.