In this talk, leading Vietnam scholar and Leiden University professor Jonathan London delves into the striking evolution of Vietnam over recent decades, showcasing its transition into a market-Leninist state and emergence as one of the world’s fastest growing economies. Drawing on his decades of studies, London examines Vietnam’s multifaceted transformation, focusing on political, economic, social, and cultural dimensions. The talk will highlight the Communist Party of Vietnam’s pivotal role and its current political dilemmas, the country’s economic boom post-1990s, and major and nuanced shifts in Vietnam’s society and culture. London will clarify complexities of Vietnam’s development, offering insights into its internal dynamics and increasing international influence, affording a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s unique position in the global and Indo Pacific landscapes, while also reflecting on the country’s contemporary challenges and future prospects.

Jonathan D. London is Associate Professor of Global Political Economy – Asia at the Leiden Institute of Area Studies. He has previously held positions at the City University of Hong Kong and Nanyang Technological University. London is a leading scholar of contemporary Vietnam. His books include The Routledge Contemporary Handbook of Contemporary Vietnam (2023) of which he is sole editor. Originally from Cambridge Massachusetts, in the United States, London holds a PhD in sociology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.