Circular No. 40/2014/TT-BCA detailing and guiding the implementation of competition and reward work in the People's Public Security Forces, public security communes, civilian protection forces, and the nationwide movement to protect national security.

CIRCULAR

Article 24prescribing in detail and guiding the implementation of competition and reward work,

commendation within the People's Public Security, village public security, and civilian defense forces,

and the nationwide people's movement for national security. Tnational security.specialized agency under the People's Committee of the province/city.

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Pursuant to the Law on Competition and Rewards; the Law Amending and Supplementing Certain Provisions of the Law on Competition and Rewards 2013;

Pursuant to Decree No. 42/2010/NĐ-CP dated April 15, 2010 of the Government detailing the implementation of certain provisions of the Law on Competition and Reward and the Law Amending and Supplementing Certain Provisions of the Law on Competition and Reward; Decree No. 39/2012/NĐ-CP dated April 27, 2012 of the Government amending and supplementing certain articles of Decree No. 42/2010/NĐ-CP dated April 15, 2010 of the Government; Decree No. 65/2014/NĐ-CP dated July 1, 2014 of the Government detailing the implementation of certain provisions of the Law Amending and Supplementing Certain Provisions of the Law on Competition and Reward in 2013;

Pursuant to Decree No. 77/2009/NĐ-CP dated September 15, 2009 of the Government stipulating the functions, tasks, powers, and organizational structure of the Ministry of Public Security; Decree No. 21/2014/NĐ-CP dated March 25, 2014 of the Government amending and supplementing Article 3 of Decree No. 77/2009/NĐ-CP;

At the proposal of the Director of the General Department for Building the Public Security Force;

The Minister of Public Security issues this Circular prescribing in detail and guiding the implementation of competition and reward work within the People's Public Security, village public security, and civilian defense forces and the nationwide people's movement for national security.

Part I

GENERAL PROVISIONS

Article 1. Scope of Regulation

1. This Circular prescribes in detail and guides the implementation of competition and reward work within the People's Public Security, village public security, and civilian defense forces and the nationwide people's movement for national security, including the following contents: Objectives, forms, criteria for commendation titles; objectives, forms, criteria for rewards; files, procedures for nominating and presenting commendation titles and reward forms; Competition and Reward Councils at all levels, Science and Innovation Councils at all levels; authority, decisions, organization of presenting commendation titles and reward forms, and the Competition and Reward Fund.

2. This Circular does not prescribe the objectives, criteria, files, and procedures for nominating and presenting commendation titles for students of public security academies and schools, titles such as "People's Teacher", "Outstanding Teacher", "People's Doctor", "Outstanding Doctor", "People's Artist", "Outstanding Artist", "People's Artisan", "Outstanding Artisan", "Ho Chi Minh Award", "State Award", and the Commemorative Medal "National Security Protection".

Article 2. Applicability

This Circular applies to collectives and individuals within the People's Public Security, village public security, and civilian defense forces and the nationwide people's movement for national security.

Article 3. Principles of Competition and Reward

1. Competition and reward principles are implemented according to the provisions of Clause 1, Article 6 of the Law on Competition and Reward; Clause 2, Clause 3, Article 1 of the Law Amending and Supplementing Certain Provisions of the Law on Competition and Reward in 2013; Article 3, Article 4 of Decree No. 42/2010/NĐ-CP and Article 2 of Decree No. 65/2014/NĐ-CP of the Government.

2. The presentation of commendation titles and reward forms shall be conducted openly and democratically, with nominations made in sequence from the grassroots level, focusing on collectives and individuals directly engaged in combat with outstanding achievements, ensuring compliance with the specified objectives, criteria, and ratios.

3. Achievements obtained under difficult conditions and with significant impact shall be rewarded at a higher level.

4. For female leaders and managers, the period of service required for consideration of rewards may be reduced by three years compared to the general requirement.

5. In one year, only one form of state-level reward can be proposed for one individual. State-level rewards include: heroic titles, the title of "National Labor Medalist", various orders, and commendations from the Prime Minister.

Article 4. Regulations on awarding commendation titles and rewards in certain specific cases

1. Cases eligible for consideration for commendation titles

a) Female employees on maternity leave as prescribed.

b) Cases where individuals are injured while performing duties and must take time off for treatment and recuperation as concluded by health authorities at district level or higher.

c) Cases where individuals attending school or training (in a work-study format) comply well with the regulations of the educational or training institution shall combine their working time at the unit to assess for commendation titles. Individuals attending school or training (in a full-time format) continuously for one year or more with satisfactory academic results may be considered for the title of "Advanced Soldier" or "Advanced Worker" that year. For individuals attending school or training (in a full-time format) not continuously for one year or more, or those with less than one year of study, assessment for commendation titles will be based on their academic results and working time at the unit.

d) Cases involving transfers to new units, the new unit shall be responsible for considering and voting for commendation titles if the individual has worked at the previous unit for six months or more, requiring a written evaluation from the previous unit.

In cases where graduates join new units upon completion of studies, they shall be assessed for commendation titles at the end of the year based on their graduation results and working time at the new unit.

đ) Soldiers serving on a fixed-term basis in the People's Public Security Forces who enlist in the first recruitment period of the year.

2. Collectives and individuals currently under review for disciplinary action or legal proceedings shall not be eligible for commendation titles or rewards. If the competent authority concludes that there was no violation or the violation did not warrant disciplinary action or legal proceedings, they may continue to be considered for commendation titles and rewards if they meet the required criteria.

3. Cases ineligible for commendation titles

a) Collectives and individuals who have not registered for commendation or have registered outside the prescribed timeframe.

b) Units newly established and have not operated for ten months up to the time of summarizing the competition.

c) Individuals newly hired or signed labor contracts for less than ten months, or those who have taken more than forty working days off during the year (excluding cases specified in points a, b, c, Clause 1 of this Article).

d) Soldiers serving on a fixed-term basis in the People's Public Security Forces who enlist in the second recruitment period of the year.

4. Collectives and individuals subject to disciplinary action whose disciplinary period has not expired shall not be eligible for commendation titles and rewards.

5. Youth organizations, women's organizations, trade unions, and professional associations within the People's Public Security Forces shall implement the awarding of commendation titles according to the regulations of their respective central agencies, and shall not follow the provisions of this Circular for awarding commendation titles.

Article 5. Responsibilities for organizing competitive movements

1. The Minister of Public Security shall organize and direct competitive movements among the People's Public Security Forces, village police, neighborhood watch, and the nationwide movement to protect national security.

2. Responsibilities of Heads of Public Security at all levels

a) Take the lead and coordinate with the Vietnam Fatherland Front and other political organizations, political-social organizations, and social-professional organizations at the same level to organize and direct competitive movements among public security units, localities, village police, neighborhood watch, and the nationwide movement to protect national security within their jurisdiction; advise municipal people's committees, leaders of relevant agencies and units to launch competitive movements, consider awards, or propose awards for the nationwide movement to protect national security and specialized competitive movements for protecting security and order in accordance with guidance from municipal people's committees, superior public security organs, and the characteristics and situation of the locality and unit.

b) Organize competitive movements in conjunction with implementing the political tasks of public security units and localities and other competitive movements.

c) Encourage and motivate public security officers and soldiers and the general public to voluntarily and enthusiastically compete in fulfilling tasks to protect security and order and build the People's Public Security Forces.

d) Supervise, inspect, and direct the implementation, interim summary, and final summary of competitive movements.

đ) Identify, promote, and widely disseminate exemplary models, maintain and enhance the effectiveness of exemplary models in competitive movements.

e) Monitor the implementation and propose solutions to effectively implement laws on competitive movements and rewards.

3. Agencies, organizations, and units shall base their competitive movements on those launched by superiors, develop plans clearly defining objectives, scope, target groups, indicators, slogans, and methods for implementing competitive movements within their own agencies, organizations, and units.

Article 6. Responsibilities of functional units in the work of competition and reward

1. The General Department for Force Building of the People's Public Security is the permanent agency assisting the Party Central Committee's Public Security Political Bureau, the Minister of Public Security, and the Ministry of Public Security's Competition and Reward Council in performing state management functions over the work of competition and reward within the People's Public Security force, village police, neighborhood watch, and the nationwide people's movement to protect national security.

b) Exceeding productivity and quality standards set out in the annual competition plan;

a) Advising and assisting the Party Central Committee's Public Security Political Bureau and the Minister of Public Security in organizing and implementing competition movements for village police, neighborhood watch, and the nationwide people's movement to protect national security.

b) Cooperating with the General Department for Force Building of the People's Public Security to propose rewards for village police, neighborhood watch, and the nationwide people's movement to protect national security.

3. Specialized agencies responsible for competition and reward work at all levels of Public Security:

a) Advising and proposing to the Party committee and heads of Public Security units and localities on policies, contents, programs, plans, and measures for competition.

b) Propagandizing, mobilizing, guiding the organization of competition movements, and inspecting their implementation.

c) Advising on interim summaries, final conclusions, announcing results of competition movements, promoting exemplary models and good deeds; proposing rewards and suggestions for reforming competition and reward work.

4. Advisory bodies for the Ministry of Public Security's Competition and Reward Council responsible for certain areas of work shall have the responsibility to review and score those areas of work for local public security forces in support of annual commendation awards; participating in opinions and evaluations for cases proposed for awarding titles such as "People's Armed Forces Hero", "Labor Hero", and "National Model Competitor".

5. Party Inspection Agencies and Public Security Internal Affairs Inspection Agencies at all levels shall be responsible for reviewing and providing information on the resolution of complaints and reports regarding collectives and individuals proposed for commendation awards and reward forms.

6. Information, press, and publishing agencies within the People's Public Security shall be responsible for publicizing competition and reward work; disseminating and setting examples of exemplary models and good deeds in competition movements; combating and criticizing negative phenomena related to competition and reward within the People's Public Security.

Part II

SPECIFIC PROVISIONS

PART I

COMPETITION TITLES AND REWARD FORMS

WITHIN THE PEOPLE'S PUBLIC SECURITY

Section 1

OBJECTS, AWARDS, AND AWARD STANDARDS IN COMPETITION

Article 7. Objects eligible for awarding commendation titles

1. For individuals:

a) Officers, non-commissioned officers, and soldiers serving on a fixed-term basis in the People's Public Security.

b) Workers and staff of the People's Public Security, contractual employees for one year or more.

2. For groups:

a) The Command of Guard Service; various bureaus, institutes, and equivalent units; academies and schools of the People's Public Security; provincial and centrally-administered city-level public security, provincial and centrally-administered city-level fire prevention and firefighting (hereinafter referred to collectively as bureau-level units and local public security).

b) Departments, offices, prisons, detention centers, compulsory education facilities, juvenile rehabilitation schools, and equivalent units; district and county-level public security, municipal districts under provinces, battalions subordinate to bureaus, battalions subordinate to the Command, public security enterprises (hereinafter referred to collectively as grassroots units).

c) Police stations and town police stations (where regular police forces are deployed), police posts, prison branches, compulsory education facility branches, battalions, companies subordinate to grassroots units, companies subordinate to bureaus, working teams, and equivalent units. Working teams, working groups, and equivalent units must be established according to the decision of the competent authority, having independent party cells, directly subordinate to large-scale grassroots units (hereinafter referred to collectively as subordinate units).

Article 8. Awards

1. For individuals:

a) Title of "Advanced Soldier" or "Advanced Worker";

b) The title "Model Worker at the Grassroots Level";

c) Title of "Model Competitor throughout the Public Security Force";

d) Title of "National Model Competitor".

2. For groups:

a) Title of "Advanced Unit" or "Advanced Collective";

b) Title of "Victorious Unit" or "Outstanding Labor Collective";

c) Flag of Excellence at the General Department level;

d) Flag of Excellence of the Ministry of Public Security;

đ) Flag of Excellence of the Government.

Article 9. Title "Outstanding Soldier" or "Outstanding Worker"

Clause 1. The title "Outstanding Soldier" or "Outstanding Worker" shall be awarded to individuals meeting the following criteria:

Point a) Demonstrating a sense of responsibility, successfully completing assigned tasks with high productivity and quality;

Point b) Adhering well to the Party's guidelines and policies, state laws, internal regulations, procedures, and work systems; fostering unity, mutual assistance, and actively participating in competitive movements;

Point c) Actively studying politics, culture, professional knowledge, having good morals and healthy lifestyle;

Point d) Receiving trust votes from the grassroots unit reaching 80% or more.

Clause 2. The maximum number of individuals receiving the title "Outstanding Soldier" or "Outstanding Worker" shall not exceed 80% of the total number of individuals eligible for evaluation for commendation titles at the Bureau level or local police units.

Article 10. Title "Model Worker at the Grassroots Level"

Clause 1. The title "Outstanding Grassroots Competitor" shall be awarded to outstanding individuals selected from those meeting the following criteria:

Point a) Meeting the criteria for the title "Outstanding Soldier" or "Outstanding Worker";

Point b) Proposing initiatives with significant effectiveness recognized by the Scientific and Innovative Council at the Bureau level or local police units, or having research topics accepted and applied, or being a member of the drafting team for national regulatory documents that exceed deadlines and achieve high quality, or demonstrating intelligence, bravery, and creativity in combat and support operations, receiving commendations from Bureau-level or higher unit leaders for outstanding achievements during competition periods;

Point c) Receiving trust votes from the grassroots unit and the Commendation and Reward Council at the Bureau level or local police units reaching 80% or more.

Clause 2. The maximum number of individuals receiving the title "Outstanding Grassroots Competitor" shall not exceed 15% of the total number of individuals who have received the titles "Outstanding Soldier" or "Outstanding Worker" at the Bureau level or local police units.

Article 11. Title "Outstanding Competitor of the National Police Force"

Clause 1. The title "Outstanding Competitor of the National Police Force" shall be awarded to outstanding individuals selected from those meeting the following criteria:

Point a) Having consecutively achieved the title "Outstanding Grassroots Competitor" three times;

Point b) Proposing initiatives with significant effectiveness and wide-ranging impact within the National Police Force recognized by the Scientific and Innovative Council at the Ministry level, or having research topics at the Ministry level accepted and applied, or being a member of the drafting team for national regulatory documents that exceed deadlines and achieve high quality, or demonstrating intelligence, bravery, and creativity in combat and support operations, receiving commendations from the Prime Minister or higher for outstanding achievements during competition periods, or receiving three commendations at the ministry, sector, provincial, or central mass organization levels for outstanding achievements during competition periods (at least two of which must be from the Ministry of Public Security);

Point c) Receiving trust votes from the Commendation and Reward Councils at all levels reaching 80% or more.

Clause 2. The maximum number of individuals receiving the title "Outstanding Competitor of the National Police Force" shall not exceed 0.5% of the personnel strength of the Bureau level or local police units.

Article 12. The title "National Model Worker"

Clause 1. The title "National Outstanding Competitor" shall be awarded to the most outstanding individuals selected from those meeting the following criteria:

Point a) Having consecutively achieved the title "Outstanding Competitor of the National Police Force" twice;

Point b) Proposing initiatives with significant effectiveness and nationwide impact recognized by the Scientific and Innovative Council at the Ministry level, or having national-level research topics accepted and applied, or demonstrating intelligence, bravery, and creativity in combat and support operations, receiving awards such as the Medal of Bravery, Medal of Merit in Combat, or Medal of National Defense for outstanding achievements;

Point c) Receiving trust votes from the Commendation and Reward Councils at all levels reaching 90% or more.

Clause 2. The title "National Outstanding Competitor" shall be awarded in the year immediately following the second time the individual achieves the title "Outstanding Competitor of the National Police Force."

Article 13. Conditions for awarding commendation titles to leaders and commanders at all levels of the Public Security Force

When considering the awarding of commendation titles to individuals who are leaders and commanders at all levels of the Public Security Force, it must be based on the general criteria stipulated in Articles 9, 10, 11, and 12 of this Circular, while also taking into account the competitive results of units directly led and managed by such individuals, specifically as follows:

1. For leaders at the General Department level:

a) Leaders at the General Department level are eligible for the title "Outstanding Soldier" when units under their responsibility complete their tasks excellently.

b) The maximum number of leaders at the General Department level eligible for the title "Outstanding Soldier" shall not exceed 70% of the total number of leaders in each General Department.

2. For leaders of units at the Department level and local public security agencies:

a) If a unit receives the "Flag of Government Competition" in the summary of the competition movement, up to 70% of the leaders of that unit may be considered for the title "Outstanding Soldier".

b) If a unit receives the "Flag of Ministry of Public Security Competition" in the summary of the competition movement, up to 50% of the leaders of that unit may be considered for the title "Outstanding Soldier".

c) If a unit does not achieve a commendation title in the summary of the competition movement, only one outstanding leader may be nominated for the title "Outstanding Soldier".

3. For leaders of grassroots units:

a) If a unit receives the "Flag of Government Competition" in the summary of the competition movement, 70% of the leaders of that unit may be considered for the title "Outstanding Soldier" (but not more than half of the total number of "Outstanding Soldiers" in the unit).

b) If a unit receives the "Flag of Ministry of Public Security Competition" in the summary of the competition movement, 50% of the leaders of that unit may be considered for the title "Outstanding Soldier" (but not more than one-third of the total number of "Outstanding Soldiers" in the unit).

c) If a unit receives the "General Department Flag Competition" in the summary of the competition movement, 30% of the leaders of that unit may be considered for the title "Outstanding Soldier".

d) If a unit receives the title "Victorious Unit", "Excellent Labor Collective", "Advanced Unit", or "Advanced Labor Collective" in the summary of the competition movement, only one outstanding leader may be considered for the title "Outstanding Soldier".

đ) If a unit does not achieve a commendation title in the summary of the competition movement, the leaders of that unit shall not be awarded the title "Outstanding Soldier".

Article 14. Title of "Advanced Unit" or "Excellent Labor Collective"

1. The title of "Advanced Unit" or "Excellent Labor Collective" is awarded to grassroots units and subordinate units that meet the following criteria:

a) Completing well the assigned tasks and competition registration targets for the year;

b) Adhering well to the Party's policies and State laws, maintaining internal unity, integrity, and strength;

c) More than 70% of individuals in the unit completing their tasks well; there should be no individual disciplined with a Warning or higher penalty, except for large-scale grassroots units with party organizations and subordinate branches or many soldiers serving on temporary duty, where the rate of Reprimand and Warning penalties may not exceed 1.5% of the unit's personnel;

d) Receiving a trust vote from the Competition and Reward Council at the General Department level or the Department level, or local public security agency, reaching 80% or more.

2. The number of grassroots units and subordinate units eligible for the title of "Advanced Unit" or "Excellent Labor Collective" shall not exceed 80% of the total number of grassroots units and subordinate units in the General Department or Department level, or local public security agency.

Article 15. Title "Victory Unit" or "Outstanding Labor Collective"

Clause 1. The title "Victory Unit" or "Outstanding Labor Collective" shall be awarded to grassroots units and subordinate units that meet the following criteria:

Point a) In work and combat, they demonstrate creativity, overcome difficulties, and excel in completing tasks and competition targets set for the year; have ongoing, practical, and effective competition movements that are recognized with awards and commendations;

b) Adhering well to the Party's policies and State laws, maintaining internal unity, integrity, and strength;

Point c) More than 90% of individuals in the unit complete their tasks well, with at least one individual meeting the criteria for "Outstanding Grassroots Soldier," and no individual being disciplined with a warning or higher penalty except for large-scale grassroots units with party organizations and subordinate branches or many soldiers serving on temporary assignments, where the rate of reprimand and warning penalties does not exceed 1% of the unit's personnel strength.

d) Receiving a trust vote from the Competition and Reward Council at the General Department level or the Department level, or local public security agency, reaching 80% or more.

Clause 2. The number of grassroots units and subordinate units eligible for the award of the title "Victory Unit" or "Outstanding Labor Collective" shall not exceed 40% of the total number of grassroots units and subordinate units under the General Department or at the Bureau level, or local public security agencies.

Article Article 16. Banner of Merit at the General Department Level

Clause 1. The banner of merit at the General Department level shall be awarded to grassroots units of the General Department or equivalent units that meet the following criteria:

Point a) They are exemplary among grassroots units that have been awarded the title "Victory Unit" or "Outstanding Labor Collective;"

c) Direct subordinate units of the Ministry are eligible for two flags, units with over ten grassroots units are eligible for three flags, and units with over fifteen grassroots units are eligible for four flags.”

Point c) They effectively implement competition movements, practice thrift, combat waste, and corruption;

Point d) They have a trust vote from the Competition and Commendation Council at the Bureau level or the General Department level reaching 80% or more.

Clause 2. The number of grassroots units eligible for the award of the banner of merit at the General Department level is specified as follows:

Point a) Units at the Bureau level and equivalents are eligible for two banners, units with more than ten grassroots units are eligible for three banners, units with more than fifteen grassroots units are eligible for four banners, and units with more than twenty grassroots units are eligible for five banners.

Point b) Public Security Enterprises under the General Department of Logistics and Technical Services, which form a competition cluster, are eligible for two banners.

Point c) Prisons, compulsory education facilities, and juvenile correction schools under the General Department of Police Enforcement and Judicial Support are divided into seven competition clusters, each eligible for two banners, clusters with more than ten grassroots units are eligible for three banners, clusters with more than fifteen grassroots units are eligible for four banners, and clusters with more than twenty grassroots units are eligible for five banners.

Point d) Direct combat units, units engaged in advisory, political, logistical, and target protection work under the Command of the People's Militia Mobile Police are divided into two competition clusters, each eligible for two banners, clusters with more than ten grassroots units are eligible for three banners, clusters with more than fifteen grassroots units are eligible for four banners, and clusters with more than twenty grassroots units are eligible for five banners.

Point d) Grassroots units directly under the General Department are eligible for the award together with the General Staff Bureau or the Political Bureau of the General Department.

Article 17. Banner of Merit of the General Department for Building the Public Security Force

Clause 1. The banner of merit of the General Department for Building the Public Security Force shall be awarded to grassroots units of provincial and centrally-administered city public security agencies, provincial and centrally-administered city fire prevention and firefighting agencies, and units directly under the Ministry that meet the following criteria:

Point a) They are exemplary among grassroots units that have been awarded the title "Victory Unit" or "Outstanding Labor Collective;"

c) Direct subordinate units of the Ministry are eligible for two flags, units with over ten grassroots units are eligible for three flags, and units with over fifteen grassroots units are eligible for four flags.”

“3. Number of "Flag of Excellence of the Government":

Point d) They have a trust vote from the Competition and Commendation Council at the Bureau level or the local public security agency reaching 80% or more.

Clause 2. The number of grassroots units eligible for the award of the banner of merit of the General Department for Building the Public Security Force is specified as follows:

Point a) Provincial and centrally-administered city public security agencies are divided into four blocks (block of departments under the security force, block of departments under the police force, block of departments under the advisory and force-building, logistics, and technical services force, and block of district, county, town, and city public security agencies), each block is eligible for two banners, blocks with more than ten grassroots units are eligible for three banners, blocks with more than fifteen grassroots units are eligible for four banners, and blocks with more than twenty grassroots units are eligible for five banners.

Point b) Provincial and centrally-administered city fire prevention and firefighting agencies, each competition block is eligible for two banners, blocks with more than ten grassroots units are eligible for three banners, blocks with more than fifteen grassroots units are eligible for four banners.

Point c) Units directly under the Ministry are eligible for two banners, units with more than ten grassroots units are eligible for three banners, and units with more than fifteen grassroots units are eligible for four banners.

Article 18. The title "Flag of Excellence of the Ministry of Public Security"

1. The title "Flag of Excellence of the Ministry of Public Security" shall be awarded to units at the Bureau level and local public security agencies that meet the following criteria:

a) Exceeding all assigned targets and tasks in the annual competition and performance evaluation.

b) Demonstrating outstanding achievements in the competition movement within their cluster or group.

c) Initiating many practical and effective competition movements; introducing new factors, models, and exemplary cases for other units to emulate; having numerous groups and individuals recognized and rewarded for their achievements.

d) Strictly implementing and effectively promoting various competition movements and campaigns; maintaining internal unity and solidarity, adhering to Party policies and State laws, leading in thrift, waste reduction, anti-corruption efforts, without any officers violating laws or regulations causing negative public opinion, damaging the reputation of the People's Public Security force, and without any department-level leaders or higher being disciplined with a warning or higher penalty.

đ) Receiving trust votes from the competition cluster and the award council at all levels reaching 80% or more.

2. The number of "Flags of Excellence of the Ministry of Public Security" awarded to units at the Bureau level and local public security agencies in the annual summary of the "For National Security" competition movement is stipulated as follows:

Each competition cluster under the Ministry may select 50% of the most outstanding units at the Bureau level and local public security agencies to recommend for the award of the "Flag of Excellence of the Ministry of Public Security".

3. The title "Flag of Excellence of the Ministry of Public Security" shall be awarded to grassroots units that meet the following criteria:

a) Being selected as an outstanding unit among those eligible for the flag of excellence at the General Department level.

b) Initiating many practical and effective competition movements; having numerous exemplary cases and many groups and individuals recognized and rewarded for their achievements.

c) Receiving trust votes from the award council at the General Department level or units at the Bureau level and local public security agencies reaching 80% or more.

4. The number of "Flags of Excellence of the Ministry of Public Security" awarded to grassroots units in the annual summary of the "For National Security" competition movement is stipulated as follows:

a) Provincial and centrally-administered city police departments are divided into four blocks (security forces block, police forces block, advisory and force-building forces block, logistics and technical support block, and district, county, town, and city police blocks). Each block can be awarded one flag, blocks with over 15 grassroots units can be awarded two flags, and blocks with over 25 grassroots units can be awarded three flags.

b) Fire prevention and firefighting departments of provinces and centrally-administered cities, each competition block can be awarded one flag, blocks with over 15 grassroots units can be awarded two flags.

c) Units at the Bureau level and equivalent can be awarded one flag, units with over 15 grassroots units can be awarded two flags, and units with over 25 grassroots units can be awarded three flags.

d) Enterprises under the General Logistics and Technical Service Department form a competition cluster and can be awarded one flag.

đ) Prisons, compulsory education facilities, and juvenile rehabilitation centers under the General Police Department for Enforcement of Criminal Sentences and Judicial Support are divided into seven competition clusters, each cluster can be awarded one flag, clusters with over 15 grassroots units can be awarded two flags, and clusters with over 25 grassroots units can be awarded three flags.

e) Direct combat units, advisory units, political work units, logistics units, and target protection units under the Command of the Mobile Police Force are divided into two competition clusters, each cluster can be awarded one flag, clusters with over 15 grassroots units can be awarded two flags, and clusters with over 25 grassroots units can be awarded three flags.

f) Grassroots units directly under the General Departments are considered together with the Advisory Bureau or Political Bureau of the General Department.

Article 19. The title "Flag of Excellence of the Government"

1. The title "Flag of Excellence of the Government" shall be awarded to units at the Bureau level and local public security agencies that meet the following criteria:

a) Being selected as an outstanding unit among those eligible for the "Flag of Excellence of the Ministry of Public Security".

b) Leading in productivity, quality, and effectiveness across all aspects of work and combat compared to other units in the competition cluster.

c) Initiating many practical and effective competition movements; developing new factors, models, and exemplary cases for the entire People's Public Security force to emulate, and having numerous groups and individuals recognized and rewarded for their achievements.

d) Having no officers who violate laws or regulations causing negative public opinion and damaging the reputation of the People's Public Security force, and no department-level leaders or higher who have been disciplined for violations.

đ) Receiving trust votes from the competition cluster and the award council at all levels reaching 80% or more.

2. The title "Flag of Excellence of the Government" shall be awarded to grassroots units that meet the following criteria:

a) Being selected as an outstanding unit among those eligible for the "Flag of Excellence of the Ministry of Public Security".

b) All individuals in the unit completing their tasks well.

c) Leading in productivity, quality, and effectiveness across all aspects of work and combat compared to other units in the competition cluster or group.

d) Initiating many practical and effective competition movements; developing new factors, models, and exemplary cases for the entire People's Public Security force to emulate, and having numerous groups and individuals recognized and rewarded for their achievements.

3. The number of "Flags of Excellence of the Government":

a) Each competition cluster under the Ministry may select one outstanding unit at the Bureau level and one outstanding grassroots unit to recommend for the award of the "Flag of Excellence of the Government".

b) The General Department for Building the Public Security Force is responsible for reviewing achievements, advising, and reporting to the Ministry of Public Security's Award Council to select and recommend the award of the "Flag of Excellence of the Government" to the most outstanding units, ensuring that the number of units receiving the "Flag of Excellence of the Government" does not exceed 20% of the total number of units receiving the "Flag of Excellence of the Ministry of Public Security".

Article 20. Competitive Groups Subordinate to the Ministry

1. Local Police Competitive Group:

a) Group 1 includes the police of the cities: Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hai Phong, Da Nang, Can Tho.

b) Group 2 includes the police of the provinces: Lao Cai, Ha Giang, Cao Bang, Lang Son, Lai Chau, Son La, Dien Bien.

c) Group 3 includes the police of the provinces: Thai Nguyen, Yen Bai, Tuyen Quang, Bac Kan, Hoa Binh, Bac Giang, Phu Tho, Quang Ninh.

d) Group 4 includes the police of the provinces: Vinh Phuc, Bac Ninh, Ha Nam, Thai Binh, Hai Duong, Hung Yen, Nam Dinh, Ninh Binh.

đ) Group 5 includes the police of the provinces: Thanh Hoa, Nghe An, Ha Tinh, Quang Binh, Quang Tri, Thua Thien Hue.

e) Group 6 includes the police of the provinces: Gia Lai, Kon Tum, Dak Lak, Lam Dong, Dak Nong, Binh Phuoc.

g) Group 7 includes the police of the provinces: Quang Nam, Quang Ngai, Binh Dinh, Phu Yen, Khanh Hoa, Ninh Thuan, Binh Thuan.

h) Group 8 includes the police of the provinces: Tay Ninh, Binh Duong, Dong Nai, Ba Ria-Vung Tau, Long An, Tien Giang, Ben Tre, Dong Thap.

i) Group 9 includes the police of the provinces: An Giang, Kien Giang, Tra Vinh, Soc Trang, Bac Lieu, Ca Mau, Vinh Long, Hau Giang.

k) Group 10 includes the Fire Prevention and Fighting Police of Ho Chi Minh City, Dong Nai, Binh Duong, Ba Ria-Vung Tau, Can Tho, Da Nang, Dak Lak.

l) Group 11 includes the Fire Prevention and Fighting Police of Hanoi, Hai Phong, Quang Ninh, Vinh Phuc, Thanh Hoa, Nghe An.

2. Competitive Groups of General Directorates and Equivalent Units:

a) General Directorate of Security I, General Directorate of Security II, General Directorate for Building the People's Public Security Force, General Directorate of Intelligence, General Directorate of Crime Prevention and Suppression, General Directorate of Administrative Management of Social Order and Safety, General Directorate of Criminal Enforcement and Judicial Assistance, Mobile Police Command; each unit is a competitive group.

b) The Logistics and Technical General Directorate is divided into 02 competitive groups: Group 1 includes units with functions of advising and managing state administration on logistics and technical work in the People's Public Security Force; Group 2 includes public service units, scientific research, health care, and project management units in the People's Public Security Force.

3. Competitive Groups of Units Directly Subordinate to the Ministry include: Mobile Guard Command, Ministry Office, Ministry Inspectorate, Legal Reform and Administrative Improvement Bureau, Foreign Affairs Bureau, Finance Bureau, Institute of Strategy and Science, Mass Mobilization and National Security Promotion Bureau, Central Commission for Discipline Inspection Party Committee of the Ministry of Public Security, Cybersecurity Bureau, Fire Prevention and Rescue Bureau.

4. Competitive Groups of Public Security Academies and Colleges

a) Group 1: Academies and universities (including the Intelligence Academy);

b) Group 2: Colleges;

c) Group 3: Secondary schools, cultural schools.

5. Organization of Competitive Group Activities

a) Competitive groups rotate annually assigning one unit to serve as the group leader to manage group activities including: holding a group meeting at the beginning of the year to sign competition agreements; holding a mid-year review meeting; organizing exchanges, experience sharing, cross-checking among units within the competitive group, identifying, nurturing, and promoting exemplary models; holding an end-of-year meeting to exchange experiences and propose awards for outstanding units within the group.

b) The results of evaluations within the competitive group are one of the bases for the General Directorate for Building the People's Public Security Force to propose and report to the Ministry of Public Security's Competition and Reward Council for approval of annual competition rewards.

Section 2

OBJECTS, FORMS, AND STANDARDS OF REWARDS

Article 21. Recipients of Awards

1. General Directorates and equivalent units;

2. The objects specified in Article 7 of this Circular;

3. Students of People's Public Security Schools;

4. Collectives and individuals belonging to organizations: youth, women, trade unions, and other vocational associations within the People's Public Security.

Article 22. Forms of Awards

1. Orders include:

a) "Order of the Golden Star";

b) "Ho Chi Minh Order";

c) "Independence Order" first class, second class, third class;

d) "Military Merit Order" first class, second class, third class;

đ) "Labor Order" first class, second class, third class;

e) "National Defense Order" first class, second class, third class;

f) "Combat Achievement Order" first class, second class, third class;

g) "Bravery Order";

h) "Friendship Order".

2. Medals include:

a) "Medal for Homeland Security";

b) "Heroic Soldier Medal" first class, second class, third class;

c) "Friendship Medal".

3. National Honorary Titles include:

a) "People's Armed Forces Hero";

b) "Labor Hero";

c) "People's Teacher", "Outstanding Teacher";

d) "People's Doctor", "Outstanding Doctor";

đ) "People's Artist", "Outstanding Artist";

e) "People's Master Craftsman", "Outstanding Master Craftsman".

4. "Ho Chi Minh Award", "State Award".

5. Certificate of Merit, Commendation Letter.

Article 23. Criteria for Orders, Medals, and National Honorary Titles

1. "Order of the Golden Star" shall be awarded or posthumously awarded to individuals and presented to collectives at the General Directorate level or higher or special function collectives meeting the criteria set forth in Article 34 of the Law on Competition and Rewards, Clause 10, Article 1 of the Law Amending and Supplementing Certain Provisions of the Law on Competition and Rewards 2013, and Article 7 of Decree No. 65/2014/ND-CP.

2. "Ho Chi Minh Order" shall be awarded or posthumously awarded to individuals and presented to units at the General Directorate level or higher or special function collectives meeting the criteria set forth in Article 35 of the Law on Competition and Rewards, Clause 11, Article 1 of the Law Amending and Supplementing Certain Provisions of the Law on Competition and Rewards 2013, and Article 8 of Decree No. 65/2014/ND-CP.

3. "Independence Order" first class, second class, third class shall be awarded or posthumously awarded to individuals and presented to collectives meeting the criteria set forth in Clauses 12, 13, 14 of Article 1 of the Law Amending and Supplementing Certain Provisions of the Law on Competition and Rewards 2013, and Articles 9, 10, 11 of Decree No. 65/2014/ND-CP.

4. "Military Merit Order" first class, second class, third class shall be awarded or posthumously awarded to individuals who have continuously worked in the People's Public Security and presented to collectives meeting the criteria set forth in Clauses 15, 16, 17 of Article 1 of the Law Amending and Supplementing Certain Provisions of the Law on Competition and Rewards 2013, and Articles 12, 13, 14 of Decree No. 65/2014/ND-CP.

5. "Labor Order" first class, second class, third class shall be awarded or posthumously awarded to individuals and presented to collectives with outstanding achievements in labor, creativity, and national construction, meeting the criteria set forth in Clauses 18, 19, 20 of Article 1 of the Law Amending and Supplementing Certain Provisions of the Law on Competition and Rewards 2013, and Articles 15, 16, 17 of Decree No. 65/2014/ND-CP.

6. "National Defense Order" first class, second class, third class shall be awarded or posthumously awarded to individuals and presented to collectives with achievements in training, building forces, and consolidating the whole people's national defense and security, meeting the criteria set forth in Clauses 21, 22, 23 of Article 1 of the Law Amending and Supplementing Certain Provisions of the Law on Competition and Rewards 2013, and Articles 18, 19, 20 of Decree No. 65/2014/ND-CP.

7. "Combat Achievement Order" first class, second class, third class shall be awarded or posthumously awarded to officers, soldiers in the People's Army, People's Public Security, village police, self-defense militia, and various strata of the people, and presented to collectives with outstanding and sudden achievements in combat, serving combat, maintaining political security, and social order and safety, meeting the criteria set forth in Clause 24, Article 1 of the Law Amending and Supplementing Certain Provisions of the Law on Competition and Rewards 2013.

8. "Bravery Order" shall be awarded or posthumously awarded to individuals of all ages who have performed brave actions in rescuing people and state property, bravely rushing into dangerous epidemic areas to save lives, and bravely fighting corruption, meeting the criteria set forth in Article 50 of the Law on Competition and Rewards.

9. "Medal for Homeland Security", "Heroic Soldier Medal" shall be awarded or posthumously awarded to officers, non-commissioned officers, workers, and staff members of the People's Public Security meeting the criteria set forth in Clauses 27, 28 of Article 1 of the Law Amending and Supplementing Certain Provisions of the Law on Competition and Rewards 2013, and Article 21 of Decree No. 65/2014/ND-CP.

10. Title "People's Armed Forces Hero", "Labor Hero" shall be awarded or posthumously awarded to individuals and presented to collectives with exceptionally outstanding achievements, meeting the criteria set forth in Clauses 30, 31 of Article 1 of the Law Amending and Supplementing Certain Provisions of the Law on Competition and Rewards 2013.

Article 24. "Prime Minister's Commendation"

1. "Prime Minister's Commendation" shall be awarded to individuals who meet one of the following criteria:

a) Outstanding and exemplary achievements recognized in large-scale competitive movements initiated by the Central Steering Committee for Mobilization and Reward or relevant ministries, sectors, provincial authorities, and central-level social organizations, when summarizing and concluding over three years.

b) Achieving numerous accomplishments or outstanding achievements with significant influence throughout the People's Public Security force.

c) Having been awarded a Ministry-level, Sector-level, Provincial-level, or Central-level Social Organization Commendation, continuously excelling in their duties for five consecutive years thereafter, receiving the title of "Outstanding Grassroots Soldier," during which time at least five effective initiatives were implemented at the grassroots level or demonstrating intelligence, bravery, and creativity in combat or support operations, being commended five times by the head of a Bureau-level unit or higher for outstanding or meritorious achievements during competitive periods.

2. "Prime Minister's Commendation" shall be awarded to groups that meet one of the following criteria:

a) Outstanding and exemplary achievements recognized in competitive movements initiated by the Central Steering Committee for Mobilization and Reward or relevant ministries, sectors, provincial authorities, and central-level social organizations, when summarizing and concluding over three years.

b) Achieving outstanding and sudden accomplishments with significant influence throughout the People's Public Security force.

c) Having been awarded a Ministry-level, Sector-level, Provincial-level, or Central-level Social Organization Commendation, continuously achieving the title of "Victorious Unit" for five consecutive years prior to the recommendation period, including at least one award of the "Ministry of Public Security Flag of Merit."

Article 25. "Ministry of Public Security Minister's Commendation"

1. "Ministry of Public Security Minister's Commendation" shall be awarded to individuals who meet one of the following criteria:

a) Outstanding achievements recognized in competitive movements initiated by relevant ministries, sectors, provincial authorities, and central-level social organizations.

b) Achieving numerous accomplishments or outstanding achievements with significant influence on one or more areas of public security work.

c) Excelling in their duties for two consecutive years prior to the recommendation period, receiving the title of "Outstanding Grassroots Soldier."

2. "Ministry of Public Security Minister's Commendation" shall be awarded to groups that meet one of the following criteria:

a) Outstanding achievements recognized in annual competitive movements.

b) Achieving numerous accomplishments or outstanding achievements with significant influence on one or more areas of public security work.

c) Excelling in their duties for two consecutive years prior to the recommendation period, receiving the title of "Victorious Unit" or "Excellent Labor Group" or higher.

Article 26. Commendation of the Director-General or Equivalent Head of Unit

The commendation of the Director-General or Equivalent Head of Unit shall be awarded to groups or individuals who meet one of the following criteria:

1. Outstanding achievements recognized in competitive movements initiated by the General Department or equivalent unit.

2. Achieving numerous accomplishments or outstanding achievements with significant influence within the General Department or equivalent unit.

Article 27. Certificate of Merit

The Certificate of Merit from the head of a Bureau-level unit or local police department shall be awarded to groups or individuals who achieve outstanding results in competitive movements at the Bureau-level or local police department, or who excel and exceed deadlines in completing a project component, part of a task, or achieve sudden accomplishments in work, combat, labor, or study with influence at the grassroots level.

Chapter II

COMPETITIVE AWARDS AND REWARD FORMS IN

COMMUNITY POLICE, NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH, AND NATIONAL SECURITY MOVEMENTS

NATIONAL SECURITY PROTECTION

Section 1

OBJECTS, AWARDS, AND AWARD STANDARDS IN COMPETITION

Article 28. Recipients of commendation awards

1. For individuals:

a) Chiefs of Communal Police Stations, Deputy Chiefs of Communal Police Stations not belonging to regular police forces (hereinafter referred to collectively as Communal Police), and communal police officers receiving monthly salary and allowances as prescribed by the Ordinance on Communal Police.

b) Chiefs of People's Security Ward Committees, Deputy Chiefs of People's Security Ward Committees, Heads, Deputy Heads, and members of People's Security Ward Committees receiving monthly allowances as prescribed by Government Decree No. 38/2006/NĐ-CP dated April 17, 2006 on People's Security Ward Committees.

2. For groups:

a) Communal Police and Town Police (in places where regular police forces are not deployed).

b) People's Security Ward Committees.

c) Civic groups, village cadres, town cadres; staff groups of grassroots-level agencies, enterprises (having legal personality) of all economic sectors.

Article 29. Commendation titles

1. For individuals:

a) Title of "Outstanding Soldier";

b) The title "Model Worker at the Grassroots Level";

c) Title of "Provincial Labor Medalist";

d) Title of "National Model Competitor".

2. For groups:

a) Title of "Advanced Unit";

b) Title of "Victorious Unit";

c) Flag of Merit Award from the People's Committee at the provincial level;

d) Flag of Merit Award from the Ministry of Public Security.

Article 30. Title of "Outstanding Soldier"

1. The title of "Outstanding Soldier" shall be awarded to individuals meeting the following criteria:

a) Successfully completing assigned tasks according to work programs, plans, and unit requirements;

b) Strictly adhering to Party policies, State laws, work procedures and regulations, maintaining discipline, fostering unity, actively participating in mass movement campaigns initiated by the People's Committees and police units at various levels;

c) Actively studying politics, culture, professional knowledge, and vocational skills;

d) Demonstrating healthy moral conduct and lifestyle;

đ) Receiving trust votes from the grassroots unit reaching 80% or more.

2. When awarding the title of "Outstanding Soldier" to Chiefs of Communal Police Stations and Chiefs of People's Security Ward Committees, in addition to the criteria stipulated in Clause 1 of this Article, it must also be based on the fact that the units they oversee must achieve the "Advanced Unit" standard or higher during the year.

3. The maximum number of individuals receiving the title of "Outstanding Soldier" shall not exceed 80% of the total number of eligible individuals for commendation evaluation at the district level.

Article 31. Title of "Grassroots-Level Labor Medalist"

1. The title of "Grassroots-Level Labor Medalist" shall be awarded to individuals meeting the following criteria:

a) Being an "Outstanding Soldier";

b) Proposing innovative measures to improve the quality and effectiveness of work, demonstrating bravery, creativity, and courage in work, training, combat, support for combat operations, and actively mobilizing the masses to participate in nationwide movements for national security, successfully completing assigned tasks;

c) Receiving trust votes from the grassroots unit reaching 80% or more.

2. When awarding the title of "Grassroots-Level Labor Medalist" to Chiefs of Communal Police Stations and Chiefs of People's Security Ward Committees, in addition to the criteria stipulated in Clause 1 of this Article, it must also be based on the fact that the units they oversee must achieve the "Victorious Unit" standard or higher during the year.

3. The maximum number of individuals receiving the title of "Grassroots-Level Labor Medalist" shall not exceed 15% of the total number of individuals who have achieved the title of "Outstanding Soldier" at the district level.

Article 32. Provincial Labor Medalist, National Labor Medalist

1. The title of "Provincial Labor Medalist" shall be awarded to individuals with outstanding achievements among those who have continuously received three times the title of "Grassroots-Level Labor Medalist", having significant influence within the province and meeting other criteria specified in the regulations on the title of "Provincial Labor Medalist" of the locality.

2. The title of "National Labor Medalist" shall be awarded to individuals meeting the criteria stipulated in Clause 1 of Article 12 of this Circular.

Article 33. Title "Advanced Unit"

1. The title "Advanced Unit" shall be awarded to Commune Police Stations and People's Security Committees that meet the following criteria:

a) Successfully completing assigned tasks and plans, organizing regular and effective competitive movements;

b) Effectively advising and implementing mass movements for national security at the grassroots level with high efficiency;

c) Strictly adhering to the Party's policies and State laws, maintaining internal unity;

d) More than 50% of individuals within the collective achieving the title "Outstanding Soldier," with no individual receiving disciplinary action from warning upwards.

2. The number of units eligible for the award of titles "Advanced Unit" and "Outstanding Labor Collective" shall not exceed 80% of the total number of Commune Police Stations and People's Security Committees in districts, towns, urban districts, and provincial cities.

Article 34. Title "Victory Determined Unit"

1. The title "Victory Determined Unit" shall be awarded to Commune Police Stations and People's Security Committees that meet the following criteria:

a) Being exemplary among "Advanced Units;"

b) Demonstrating creativity and perseverance in work and combat, successfully completing tasks beyond expectations (based on set targets, plans, and goals). Organizing practical competitive movements recognized and emulated by peer units, and commended by superiors;

c) Serving as models in adhering to the Party's policies and State laws, maintaining a united, clean, and strong collective;

d) All individuals completing their tasks, with at least 70% achieving the title "Outstanding Soldier," and having officers and soldiers who have received the title "Outstanding Soldier at the Grassroots Level."

2. The number of collectives receiving the title "Victory Determined Unit" shall not exceed 40% of the total number of units eligible for the title "Advanced Unit."

Article 35. Flag of Excellence Awarded by Provincial People's Committee

1. For Commune Police Stations and People's Security Committees: The Flag of Excellence Awarded by Provincial People's Committee shall be given to leading collectives in the Commune Police Station and People's Security Committee sector that meet the excellence flag award criteria established by local authorities.

2. For the mass movement for national security: The Provincial Public Security Department, directly under the central government, will coordinate with the same-level Reward and Commendation Board regarding the target groups and quantity of flags of excellence awarded by the Provincial People's Committee for the mass movement for national security.

Article 36. Flag of Excellence Awarded by the Ministry of Public Security

1. The Flag of Excellence Awarded by the Ministry of Public Security shall be awarded to outstanding people's collectives in communes, wards, towns (if the town police station is organized like a ward police station, then the town may propose the Flag of Excellence of the Ministry of Public Security according to the ward group; if the town police station is a semi-professional force, then the town proposes according to the commune group), and collectives of cadres, workers, and employees of grassroots agencies and enterprises (with legal entity status) belonging to all economic sectors, meeting the following criteria:

a) Leading and excelling in the mass movement for national security in commune, ward, town, and agency-enterprise groups across provinces and centrally-administered cities and central agencies;

b) Exceeding targets in comprehensive competition indicators, programs, and plans for combating crime and ensuring public security and order; introducing new factors and models for the mass movement for national security for other units to emulate; having a solid core force in public security and order work achieving the title "Victory Determined Unit" or "Outstanding Labor Collective;"

c) Fulfilling the main political tasks of communes, wards, towns, agencies, and enterprises; completing production and business plans, fulfilling state obligations fully, achieving high productivity, quality, economic efficiency, and work effectiveness;

d) Clean and strong party organizations, administrative bodies, and mass organizations; practicing good grassroots democracy; organizing good competitive movements, thrift, anti-corruption, and waste reduction.

2. Quantity: Each province and centrally-administered city may be awarded up to three Flags of Excellence of the Ministry of Public Security annually (equally divided among three groups: communes, wards, or agencies/enterprises). The central agency-enterprise group may propose up to five flags for five leading units in the competitive movement.

Section 2: RECIPIENTS, FORMS, AND CRITERIA FOR AWARDS

Article 37. Recipients of awards

1. Includes recipients specified in Article 28 of this Circular and collectives and individuals with achievements in the nationwide movement to protect national security.

2. Overseas Vietnamese, foreigners, foreign agencies and organizations, and international organizations in Vietnam with achievements in the cause of protecting national security and social order of the Vietnamese State.

Article 38. Forms and criteria for awards

1. Award forms as prescribed in Points e, f, g, h Clause 1, Point a Clause 3, Clause 5 Article 22 of this Circular and the Commemorative Medal "National Security Protection".

2. Criteria for conferring Orders, titles of "People's Armed Forces Hero", "Prime Minister's Certificate of Merit" shall be implemented according to the provisions of Articles 23 and 24 of this Circular.

Article 39. "Certificate of Merit from the Minister of Public Security"

1. "Certificate of Merit from the Minister of Public Security" is awarded annually at the conclusion of the nationwide movement to protect national security to collectives (as specified in Point c Clause 2 Article 28 of this Circular) that meet the following criteria:

a) Fully completing all competition targets, programs, and plans for combating crime and ensuring national security and social order; having exemplary models of the nationwide movement to protect national security; having a strong core force for national security and social order (reaching the title of "Advanced Unit" or higher); being a model collective of the province or centrally-administered city or central agency or enterprise regarding the nationwide movement to protect national security;

b) Effectively performing political tasks of communes, wards, agencies, and enterprises; completing production and business plans, fulfilling state obligations, achieving high productivity, quality, economic efficiency, and work performance;

c) Clean and strong Party and mass organizations, internal unity; effectively implementing grassroots democracy; organizing effective competitive movements, thrift, anti-corruption, anti-waste, anti-smuggling, and social evils.

2. Quantity of Certificates of Merit:

a) For provinces: not exceeding the total number of district-level administrative units.

b) For centrally-administered cities: not exceeding 120% of the total number of district-level administrative units.

c) For central agencies and enterprises under the supervision of the First and Second General Departments of Security: not exceeding the total number of ministries, ministerial-level agencies, and government agencies.

3. "Certificate of Merit from the Minister of Public Security" is awarded to collectives at mid-term reviews or final conclusions of special topics, competition periods, or for outstanding achievements in security and social order work, meeting the following criteria:

a) Outstanding achievements in implementing special topic work, competition periods within the nationwide movement to protect national security or outstanding achievements in security and social order work with exemplary effects at the provincial level;

b) Internal unity; effectively implementing grassroots democracy;

c) Caring for the material and spiritual lives of members in the collective; practicing thrift;

c) Organizing competitive movements well;

d) Clean and strong Party and mass organizations.

4. "Certificate of Merit from the Minister of Public Security" is awarded to individuals at mid-term reviews or final conclusions of special topics, competition periods, or for outstanding achievements in security and social order work, meeting the following criteria:

a) Outstanding achievements in implementing special topic work, competition periods within the nationwide movement to protect national security or outstanding achievements in security and social order work with exemplary effects at the provincial level;

b) Excellently completing tasks; having good moral qualities; being united and exemplary in adhering to the policies of the Party and laws of the State;

c) The quantity of Certificates of Merit for each mid-term review or final conclusion of special topics or competition period is decided by the leadership of the Ministry of Public Security.

Article 40. Commemorative Medal "National Security Protection"

1. The Commemorative Medal "National Security Protection" shall be awarded to individuals who have outstanding achievements in the cause of national security protection. The Commemorative Medal "National Security Protection" shall only be awarded once to each individual.

2. The criteria, files, and procedures for awarding the Commemorative Medal "National Security Protection" shall be implemented according to the regulations of the Ministry of Public Security. The Department of Mass Mobilization for National Security Protection is responsible for drafting these regulations.

Article 41. Certificate of Merit

1. The Certificate of Merit of the Head of the Unit at the Bureau level and local public security agencies shall be awarded to collectives and individuals in the annual summary of the mass mobilization movement for national security protection; in mid-term and final summaries of the implementation of specific topics, or for outstanding achievements in national security and social order work.

2. Individuals eligible for the Certificate of Merit must meet the following criteria:

a) Fulfill their duties and obligations as citizens well; possess good moral character; unite and set a good example in implementing the policies of the Party and the laws of the State;

b) Achieve notable results in performing their specialized tasks, in implementing specific topic tasks, during competition periods, or for outstanding achievements (for village police officers and neighborhood watch personnel); actively participate in building the mass mobilization movement for national security protection or achieve notable results in national security and social order work (for all strata of the people);

c) Continuously study and improve their professional knowledge and skills (for village police officers and neighborhood watch personnel).

3. Collectives eligible for the Certificate of Merit must meet the following criteria:

a) Achieve notable results in performing their specialized tasks, in implementing specific topic tasks, during competition periods, or for outstanding achievements (for collectives of village police officers and neighborhood watch personnel); actively participate in building the mass mobilization movement for national security protection or achieve notable results in national security and social order work.

b) Maintain internal unity; implement grassroots democracy well; organize competitions effectively;

c) Practice thrift; care for the material and spiritual lives of members; fully implement all systems and policies for all members of the collective.

4. The number of Certificates of Merit for annual summaries; the number and recipients for specific topic commendations shall be determined by the authority granting the Certificates of Merit.

Chapter III

THE COMPETITION AND REWARD COUNCILS AT ALL LEVELS AND THE SCIENCE AND INNOVATION COUNCILS AT ALL LEVELS

Article 42. Competition and Reward Council of the Ministry of Public Security

1. The Competition and Reward Council of the Ministry of Public Security is the advisory body to the Minister of Public Security on competition and reward work within the People's Public Security Forces, village police, neighborhood watch, and the mass mobilization movement for national security protection.

2. Composition of the Council:

a) The Chairman of the Council is the Minister;

b) Vice Chairmen of the Council include: the Deputy Minister in charge of daily operations as the First Vice Chairman, and the Deputy Minister in charge of force construction as the Executive Vice Chairman;

c) Members of the Council include: Deputy Ministers, the Director of the General Department of Force Construction of the People's Public Security Forces, the Deputy Director of the General Department of Force Construction in charge of political and ideological work, and the Director of the Political Work Department.

3. The permanent office of the Council is the General Department of Force Construction of the People's Public Security Forces.

4. Advisory bodies to the Council include: general departments, the Office of the Ministry of Public Security, the Inspectorate of the Ministry of Public Security, and the Department of Mass Mobilization for National Security Protection.

5. The Department of Competition and Reward under the Political Work Department is the specialized body assisting the Competition and Reward Council of the Ministry of Public Security.

6. Tasks and powers of the Council:

a) Regularly assess the results of the competition movement and reward work within the People's Public Security Forces, village police, neighborhood watch, and the mass mobilization movement for national security protection; advise and propose policies and measures to promote the competition movement and reward work every quarter, annually, and during each phase;

b) Urge, inspect, and supervise the implementation of policies and regulations concerning competition and reward work;

c) Advise and report to the Minister to decide on conferring titles of honor and forms of reward within the Council's jurisdiction or to higher authorities for state-level rewards.

6. The Competition and Reward Council of the Ministry meets regularly quarterly and convenes to review the annual competition movement "For National Security" for units at the Bureau level and local public security agencies.

The permanent office of the Council is responsible for advising the Minister to issue the Decision establishing the Competition and Reward Council of the Ministry and the operational rules of the Council consistent with the operational rules of the Central Competition and Reward Council and the legal provisions on competition and reward work.

Article 43. The Competition and Reward Council at the General Department Level

Clause 1. The Competition and Reward Council at the General Department Level is the advisory body to the General Department Director or the equivalent unit head regarding competition and reward work.

2. Composition of the Council:

Point a) The Chairman of the Council is the General Department Director or the equivalent unit head.

Point b) The Vice-Chairman of the Council is the Deputy General Department Director or the Deputy Head of the equivalent unit who oversees force building work.

Point c) Members of the Council include: Deputy General Department Directors or Deputy Heads of equivalent units, the Political Bureau Chief (or heads of units with functions equivalent to the Political Bureau).

Clause 3. The Standing Office of the Council is the Political Bureau (or equivalent unit).

Clause 4. Advisory bodies for the Council include units under the Bureau level directly subordinate to the General Department or units under the Bureau level directly subordinate to the equivalent unit at the General Department level.

Clause 5. The Standing Office of the Council advises the General Department Director or the equivalent unit head on issuing Decisions to establish the Competition and Reward Council and the Operating Regulations of the Council.

Article 44. The Competition and Reward Council at the Bureau Level Unit

Clause 1. The Competition and Reward Council at the Bureau Level Unit is the advisory body to the Bureau Level Unit Head regarding competition and reward work within the unit.

Clause 2. Composition of the Council:

Point a) The Chairman of the Council is the Unit Head.

Point b) The Vice-Chairman of the Council is the Deputy Unit Head responsible for force building work.

Point c) Members of the Council include: Deputy Bureau Level Unit Heads and the Chief of the Planning and Coordination Department (or heads of units with functions equivalent to the Planning and Coordination Department).

Clause 3. The Standing Office of the Council is the Planning and Coordination Department (or equivalent unit).

Clause 4. Advisory bodies for the Council include related departments and offices.

Clause 5. The Standing Office of the Council advises the Bureau Level Unit Head on issuing Decisions to establish the Competition and Reward Council at the Bureau Level Unit and the Operating Regulations of the Council.

Article 45. The Competition and Reward Council of Provincial Public Security Organs and Municipal Public Security Organs Directly Under the Central Government

Clause 1. The Competition and Reward Council of Provincial Public Security Organs and Municipal Public Security Organs Directly Under the Central Government is the advisory body to the Provincial Public Security Director or Municipal Public Security Director Directly Under the Central Government regarding competition and reward work.

Clause 2. Composition of the Council:

Point a) The Chairman of the Council: Director.

Point b) The Vice-Chairman of the Council: Deputy Director responsible for force building work.

Point c) Members of the Council: Deputy Directors and the Chief of Political Work Department.

Clause 3. The Standing Office of the Council: Political Work Department.

Clause 4. Advisory bodies: Planning Department, Organization and Cadre Management Department, Mass Mobilization Department for National Security Protection, Logistics Department, Inspectorate, Party Work and Mass Mobilization Department.

Clause 5. The Standing Office of the Council advises the Provincial Public Security Director or Municipal Public Security Director on issuing Decisions to establish the Competition and Reward Council and the Operating Regulations of the Council.

Article 46. The Competition and Reward Council of Provincial Fire Prevention and Fighting Police and Municipal Fire Prevention and Fighting Police Directly Under the Central Government

Clause 1. The Competition and Reward Council of Provincial Fire Prevention and Fighting Police and Municipal Fire Prevention and Fighting Police Directly Under the Central Government is the advisory body to the Fire Prevention and Fighting Police Director regarding competition and reward work.

Clause 2. Composition of the Council:

Point a) The Chairman of the Council: Director.

Point b) The Vice-Chairman of the Council: Deputy Director responsible for force building work.

Point c) Members of the Council: Deputy Directors and the Chief of Political Department (or heads of units with functions equivalent to the Political Department).

Clause 3. The Standing Office of the Council: Political Department (or equivalent unit).

Clause 4. Advisory bodies: Planning Department, Logistics and Technical Equipment Department, Guidance and Direction Department for Fire Prevention, Guidance and Direction Department for Fire Fighting, Rescue and Relief, Rescue and Relief Department, and related units.

Clause 5. The Standing Office of the Council advises the Fire Prevention and Fighting Police Director on issuing Decisions to establish the Competition and Reward Council and the Operating Regulations of the Council.

Article 47. Scientific and Innovative Council at the Ministry Level

1. The Minister of Public Security shall decide to establish the Scientific and Innovative Council of the Ministry of Public Security, the composition of the Council includes:

a) The Chairman of the Council is the Deputy Minister responsible for scientific and technological work.

b) The Vice Chairmen of the Council are other Deputy Ministers.

c) Members of the Council are the General Directors of general departments and the Director of the Institute of Strategy and Public Security Science, and experts in the field of science and technology decided by the Minister.

2. The Scientific and Innovative Council at the Ministry level has the task of examining, appraising, evaluating, and recognizing in writing innovative technical improvements, work solutions, or the application of new technologies that are effective and have nationwide impact. The results of recognition by the Scientific and Innovative Council at the Ministry level are one of the bases for considering the awarding of the title "National Model Soldier" and "Model Soldier of the National Public Security Force" and state-level commendation forms as prescribed.

3. The Institute of Strategy and Public Security Science is the Standing Office of the Council with the responsibility to advise and report to the Minister on issuing the Decision to establish the Council, the Rules of Operation of the Council, the procedures for requesting recognition of innovations, and to collect and propose to the Council for examination and recognition of innovations.

Article 48. Scientific and Innovative Council at the Basic Level

1. The head of the unit at the Bureau level or local public security agency decides to establish the Scientific and Innovative Council at the basic level, the composition of the Council includes:

a) The Chairman of the Council is the head of the unit at the Bureau level or local public security agency.

b) The Vice Chairmen of the Council are the Deputy Heads of the unit at the Bureau level or local public security agency.

c) Members of the Council are representatives of the leaders of departments and offices and experts in the field of science and technology decided by the head of the unit at the Bureau level or local public security agency. The Head of the Planning and Coordination Department (or the Head of the equivalent unit) is a Standing Member of the Council.

2. The Scientific and Innovative Council at the basic level has the task of examining, appraising, evaluating, and recognizing in writing innovative technical improvements, work solutions, or the application of new technologies that are effective and have an impact within the unit at the Bureau level or local public security agency. The results of recognition by the Scientific and Innovative Council at the basic level are one of the bases for considering the awarding of the title "Basic Level Model Soldier".

3. The Planning and Coordination Department (or the equivalent unit) is the Standing Office of the Council with the responsibility to advise and report to the head of the unit at the Bureau level or local public security agency on decisions to establish the Scientific and Innovative Council at the basic level, issue the Rules of Operation of the Council, and collect and propose to the Council for examination and recognition of innovations.

Chapter IV

AUTHORITY TO DECIDE AND ORGANIZE AWARDS

COMPETITION TITLES AND REWARD FORMS

Article 49. Authority to Decide Awards and Commendations

1. The authority to decide awards of national-level titles and commendations, and national honor titles is implemented according to Articles 77 and 78 of the Law on Encouragement and Reward, and Paragraphs 45 and 46 of Article 1 of the Law Amending and Supplementing Certain Provisions of the Law on Encouragement and Reward in 2013.

2. The authority to decide awards of titles and commendations within the National Public Security Force is carried out as follows:

a) The Minister of Public Security decides to award the title "Flag of Excellence of the Ministry of Public Security", "Model Soldier of the National Public Security Force", "Certificate of Merit from the Minister of Public Security", and the Commemorative Medal "National Security Protection".

b) The General Director, or the Head of an equivalent unit at the General Department level, decides to award the title "Flag of Excellence at the General Department Level", "Victory Unit", "Outstanding Labor Collective", "Model Soldier at the Basic Level", and Certificates of Merit for collectives and individuals within the General Department and equivalent units; decides to award titles and Certificates of Merit for collectives and individuals within subordinate basic units; decides to award Certificates of Merit for collectives and individuals under the Public Security Units and localities with achievements in specialized work areas under the responsibility of the General Director or the Head of an equivalent unit at the General Department level.

c) The General Director of the General Department for Building the National Public Security Force decides to award the title "Advanced Soldier", "Model Soldier at the Basic Level" to the Directors and Deputy Directors of Provincial Public Security Departments, Central City Public Security Departments, Fire Prevention and Fighting Departments of provinces and central cities; the Heads and Deputy Heads of units directly under the Ministry; decides to award the "Flag of Excellence of the General Department for Building the National Public Security Force" to basic units directly under provincial Public Security Departments, Central City Public Security Departments, Fire Prevention and Fighting Departments of provinces and central cities, and units directly under the Ministry.

d) The Heads of units directly under the Ministry, Directors of Provincial Public Security Departments, Central City Public Security Departments, and Fire Prevention and Fighting Departments of provinces and central cities decide to award the title "Victory Unit", "Outstanding Labor Collective", "Advanced Unit", "Advanced Labor Collective", "Model Soldier at the Basic Level", "Advanced Soldier", "Advanced Worker", and Letters of Commendation to collectives and individuals within their own units.

đ) The Heads of units at the Bureau level (under General Departments) decide to award the title "Advanced Unit", "Advanced Labor Collective", "Advanced Soldier", "Advanced Worker", and Letters of Commendation to collectives and individuals within their own units.

3. The authority to decide awards of titles and commendations for collectives and individuals belonging to the Public Security Village Forces, People's Security Guards, and the All-People National Security Protection Movement:

a) The Minister of Public Security decides to award the title "Flag of Excellence of the Ministry of Public Security", the Commemorative Medal "National Security Protection", and the Certificate of Merit from the Minister of Public Security.

b) The Chairman of the Provincial People's Committee decides to award the title "Flag of Excellence of the Provincial People's Committee", "Victory Unit", "Outstanding Labor Collective", and "Provincial Model Soldier".

c) The Chairman of the District People's Committee decides to award the title "Advanced Unit", "Advanced Labor Collective", "Model Soldier at the Basic Level", and "Advanced Soldier".

Article 50. Organization of bestowal of commendation titles and forms of reward

1. The ceremony for bestowing commendation titles and forms of State rewards includes: "Flag of Competition from the Government", "National Model Worker", various types of Orders, honorary titles of the State, "Ho Chi Minh Prize", "State Prize", "Order of Merit for Homeland Security", "Order of Military Merit", "Certificate of Merit from the Prime Minister" shall be implemented according to the provisions of Government Decree No. 145/2013/NĐ-CP dated October 29, 2013 on the organization of commemorative days; ceremonies for bestowing and receiving forms of reward and commendation titles; diplomatic rituals and welcoming foreign guests; and regulations stipulated in the People's Public Security Regulations.

2. For the forms of reward "Hero of the People's Armed Forces", "Hero of Labor", "Golden Star Order", "Ho Chi Minh Order": The General Department of Force Building of the People's Public Security shall take the lead and coordinate with units having collectives and individuals to be rewarded with these forms to develop plans for receiving and submit them to the Minister for comments before organizing the bestowal and reception ceremonies.

3. The Minister of Public Security organizes the bestowal or delegates to Vice Ministers, Heads of agencies and units to organize the bestowal of commendation titles and forms of reward within the Minister’s authority.

4. The Head of Public Security units and localities organizes the bestowal of commendation titles and forms of reward within their authority.

5. The bestowal and reception of commendation titles and forms of reward should be combined with the organization of summary conferences, commemorative days, traditional days; separate bestowal and reception ceremonies for commendation titles and forms of reward should not be organized.

6. Bestowal and reception shall only occur once for each form of reward.

7. Commendation titles and forms of reward shall be bestowed in descending order. In cases where the same form of reward is concerned, it shall be bestowed first to collectives then to individuals; bestowed first then posthumously bestowed.

8. The organization of bestowal of commendation titles and forms of reward must be solemn, practical, avoiding ostentation, formalism, and waste.

Chapter V

NOMINATION PROCEDURES AND FILES, PROCEDURAL REQUIREMENTS FOR BESTOWAL

COMPETITION TITLES AND REWARD FORMS

WITHIN THE PEOPLE'S PUBLIC SECURITY

Article 51. Nomination Procedures

1. Commendation titles are evaluated and proposed from grassroots units and subordinate units. The nomination procedures for bestowal of commendation titles and forms of reward shall be carried out according to the principle that the level managing organizational structure, cadres, and salary fund is responsible for bestowing commendation titles and forms of reward or submitting to a higher level for bestowing commendation titles and forms of reward for objects under its management.

2. The level initiating competition shall be responsible for rewarding or submitting to a higher level for rewarding. When summarizing the competition movement, only the forms of reward of the initiating level shall be used. In case of outstanding achievements, higher levels may be requested for rewarding but only one level above.

3. The Minister of Public Security shall examine and propose to the Prime Minister for rewarding or propose to the Prime Minister for recommending the President to decide on bestowing national-level forms of reward.

4. Public Security units and localities when proposing to bestow commendation titles and forms of reward within the Minister’s authority or national-level forms of reward must report to the General Department of Force Building of the Public Security Ministry for review and submission to the leadership of the Ministry for decision.

"5. Foreign rewards:"

a) The Foreign Affairs Bureau reports, seeks opinions from the Ministry's leadership on the reward policy and submits to the Ministry's leadership for signing the exchange document with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before coordinating with the General Department of Force Building of the Public Security Ministry to handle the procedures for proposing forms of reward.

b) Public Security units and localities proposing rewards report to the Ministry (through the Foreign Affairs Bureau) to coordinate with the General Department of Force Building of the Public Security Ministry to handle the procedures for proposing rewards.

6. Collectives and individuals specializing in party and mass organization work under the Ministry of Public Security shall be rewarded by the Ministry of Public Security or submitted to higher levels for rewarding.

Article 52. General Provisions on Documents and Procedures

1. Collectives and individuals proposing to be awarded commendations shall prepare reports of achievements according to the model attached to Decree No. 39/2013/NĐ-CP of the Government for submission to the competent authority for review. The report of achievements of collectives must have confirmation from the direct superior management agency and the awarding level. The report of achievements of individuals must have confirmation from the direct management level and the awarding level.

2. Reports of achievements proposed for commendation must closely adhere to the criteria for commendation. Collectives and individuals applying for commendation under which criteria must submit reports of achievements according to those criteria. The report must contain sufficient grounds for comparison with the commendation criteria prescribed by law.

3. For collectives that have the obligation to pay state budget revenues, when preparing documents to propose titles of excellence and forms of national commendation for such collectives or individuals who are their leaders, there must be a document from the financial agency confirming the following contents:

a) The actual amount of tax and other revenues paid compared to the registered amount in the year;

b) The percentage of state budget revenue paid compared to the previous year;

c) Have paid all taxes and other revenues as required by law, on time and in full.

4. In cases of posthumous awards, the political agency at the awarding level shall coordinate with the unit directly managing the individual to prepare reports of achievements and other documents and procedures to propose commendation in accordance with regulations.

Article 53. Documents and Procedures for Proposing to Award Titles "Advanced Soldier", "Advanced Worker", "Advanced Unit", "Advanced Labor Collective", "Victory Unit", "Outstanding Labor Collective"

1. The documents for proposing to award titles "Advanced Soldier", "Advanced Worker", "Advanced Unit", "Advanced Labor Collective", "Victory Unit", "Outstanding Labor Collective" shall be prepared in one set including:

a) A proposal letter (attached with a list of collectives and individuals proposed for awarding excellence titles);

b) Minutes of meeting with voting results of the awarding level;

c) Summary of achievements of collectives and individuals proposed for awarding excellence titles.

2. Basic units and subordinate units shall prepare documents for proposing to award titles "Advanced Soldier", "Advanced Worker", "Advanced Unit", "Advanced Labor Collective", "Victory Unit", "Outstanding Labor Collective" to submit to the direct superior management agency for consideration and decision or to the competent authority for consideration and decision.

Article 54. Documents and Procedures for Proposing to Award Title "Model Soldier at the Grassroots Level"

1. The documents for proposing to award title "Model Soldier at the Grassroots Level" shall be prepared in one set including:

a) A proposal letter (attached with a list of individuals proposed for awarding the title "Model Soldier at the Grassroots Level");

b) Minutes of meeting of the Commendation and Reward Council of the awarding level;

c) Report of achievements of individuals proposed for awarding the title "Model Soldier at the Grassroots Level", in which the report must clearly state the content of inventions, initiatives bringing high efficiency or scientific topics applied in practice or legal normative documents drafted or acts of ingenuity, bravery, creativity in combat or service support for combat;

d) Copy of the document recognizing the initiative of the Science and Initiative Council of the Bureau-level unit, local police or the document accepting the scientific topic or the legal normative document issued or special commendations already received (Letter of Commendation, Certificate of Merit, Medal).

2. The awarding level shall prepare documents for proposing to award the title "Model Soldier at the Grassroots Level" to submit to the competent authority for consideration and decision.

Article 55. Documents and procedures for nominating to be considered for awarding the title "Outstanding Soldier of the Entire National Police Force" and "Outstanding Soldier of the Whole Country"

Clause 1. The application dossier for nominating to be considered for awarding the title "Outstanding Soldier of the Entire National Police Force" shall be established in two copies, and for the title "Outstanding Soldier of the Whole Country" in three copies, including:

Point a) A report (accompanied by a list and summary of achievements of the individual nominated for the title "Outstanding Soldier of the Entire National Police Force", "Outstanding Soldier of the Whole Country") submitted by the level proposing to the Minister;

Point b) Minutes of the meeting of the Commendation and Award Council at the level proposing to the Minister;

Point c) Report on achievements of the individual nominated for the title "Outstanding Soldier of the Entire National Police Force", "Outstanding Soldier of the Whole Country", confirmed by the level proposing to the Minister, which must clearly state the content of inventions, innovations with high effectiveness or scientific research topics applied in practice or the quality and progress of legal normative documents drafted or acts of ingenuity, bravery, creativity in combat or service support, combat;

Point d) A copy of the decision awarding the title "Outstanding Soldier of the Base Unit" in the three years proposed (for individuals nominated for the title "Outstanding Soldier of the Entire National Police Force") or the Decision awarding the title "Outstanding Soldier of the Entire National Police Force" twice consecutively (for individuals nominated for the title "Outstanding Soldier of the Whole Country"); documents recognizing innovations by the Science and Innovation Council at the Ministry level or legal normative documents issued or special commendations awarded (Certificates of Merit, Awards, Orders related to the commendation criteria);

Clause 2. Police units and localities establish the application dossier for nominating to be considered for awarding the title "Outstanding Soldier of the Entire National Police Force", "Outstanding Soldier of the Whole Country" to submit to the Commendation and Award Council of the Ministry (through the General Department for Building the National Police Force) for examination and decision or for examination and submission to the Prime Minister for decision.

Article 56. Documents and procedures for nominating to be considered for awarding the Flag of Excellence at the General Department level

Clause 1. The application dossier for nominating to be considered for awarding the Flag of Excellence at the General Department level shall be established in two copies, including:

Point a) A report (accompanied by a list of collectives nominated for the Flag of Excellence at the General Department level) submitted by the level proposing commendation;

b) Minutes of meeting of the Commendation and Reward Council of the awarding level;

Point c) Report on achievements of the collective nominated for the Flag of Excellence at the General Department level.

Clause 2. Police units and localities establish the application dossier for commendation to submit to the Commendation and Award Council at the General Department level (through the Permanent Office of the Commendation and Award Council at the General Department level) for examination and decision.

Clause 3. The application dossier for awarding the "Flag of Excellence of the General Department for Building the National Police Force" to grassroots units shall be submitted to the Commendation and Award Council of the General Department for Building the National Police Force (through the Political Work Bureau) for examination and decision.

Article 57. Documents and procedures for nominating to be considered for awarding the "Flag of Excellence of the Ministry of Public Security"

Clause 1. The application dossier for nominating to be considered for awarding the "Flag of Excellence of the Ministry of Public Security" for units at the Bureau level and local police shall be established in two copies, including:

Point a) A report proposing to be considered for awarding the "Flag of Excellence of the Ministry of Public Security" submitted by the level proposing to the Minister;

Point b) Minutes of the meeting of the Commendation and Award Council of the General Department or Minutes of the meeting of the Competition Group;

Point c) Report on achievements of the unit nominated for commendation confirmed by the level proposing to the Minister;

Point d) Summary of achievements of the unit nominated for commendation.

Clause 2. The application dossier for nominating to be considered for awarding the "Flag of Excellence of the Ministry of Public Security" for grassroots units shall be established in two copies, including:

Point a) A report (accompanied by a list of grassroots units nominated for the "Flag of Excellence of the Ministry of Public Security") submitted by the level proposing to the Minister;

Point b) Minutes of the meeting of the Commendation and Award Council at the level proposing to the Minister;

Point c) Report on achievements of the unit nominated for commendation confirmed by the level proposing to the Minister;

Point d) Summary of achievements of the unit nominated for commendation.

Clause 3. Police units and localities establish the application dossier for nominating to be considered for awarding the "Flag of Excellence of the Ministry of Public Security" to submit to the Commendation and Award Council of the Ministry (through the General Department for Building the National Police Force) for examination and decision.

Article 58. Documents and Procedures for Proposing to Award the "Flag of Excellence from the Government"

1. The documents for proposing to award the "Flag of Excellence from the Government" shall be established in three sets including:

a) A proposal report from the level submitting to the Minister;

Point b) Minutes of the meeting of the Commendation and Award Council of the General Department or Minutes of the meeting of the Competition Group;

c) A report on achievements of the collective being proposed for the award with confirmation from the level submitting to the Minister;

d) A summary of achievements of the collective being proposed for the award.

2. Units and local public security organs shall establish the documents for proposing to award the "Flag of Excellence from the Government" and submit them to the Ministry's Commendation Council (through the General Department for Building the Public Security Force) for review, then submit to the Prime Minister for decision.

Article 59. Documents and Procedures for Proposing to Award Medals and Certificates of Merit from the Prime Minister

1. The documents for proposing to award medals shall be established in four sets, and Certificates of Merit from the Prime Minister shall be established in three sets including:

a) A proposal report (with attached list of collectives and individuals proposed for commendation) from the level submitting to the Minister;

Point b) Minutes of the meeting of the Commendation and Award Council at the level proposing to the Minister;

c) A report on achievements of the collectives and individuals proposed for commendation with confirmation from the level submitting to the Minister;

d) A summary of achievements of the collectives and individuals proposed for commendation.

2. Units and local public security organs shall establish the documents for proposing to award medals and submit them to the Ministry's Commendation Council (through the General Department for Building the Public Security Force) for review, then submit to the competent authority for decision.

Article 60. Documents and Procedures for Proposing to Award the "Order of Friendship", "Medal of Friendship"

1. The documents for proposing to award the "Order of Friendship", "Medal of Friendship" shall be established in four sets including:

a) A proposal report (with attached list of collectives and individuals proposed for commendation);

b) A report on achievements of the collectives and individuals proposed for commendation.

2. Units and local public security organs shall coordinate with the Foreign Affairs Bureau to seek approval for commendation from the leadership of the Ministry of Public Security and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before establishing the documents and submitting them to the Ministry's Commendation Council (through the General Department for Building the Public Security Force) for review, then submit to the competent authority for decision.

Article 61. Documents and Procedures for Proposing to Award the "Medal for Homeland Security", "Medal of Distinguished Soldiers"

1. The documents for proposing to award the "Medal for Homeland Security", "Medal of Distinguished Soldiers" shall be established in four sets including:

a) A proposal report from the level submitting to the Minister;

b) A brief list of individuals proposed for commendation and a USB containing the brief list of individuals proposed for commendation.

2. Annually, units and local public security organs shall establish the documents for proposing to award the "Medal for Homeland Security", "Medal of Distinguished Soldiers" and submit them to the Ministry's Commendation Council (through the General Department for Building the Public Security Force) once before August 30.

Article 62. Documents and Procedures for Proposing to Award the "Certificate of Merit from the Minister of Public Security"

1. The documents for proposing to award the "Certificate of Merit from the Minister of Public Security" shall be established in two sets including:

a) A proposal report (with attached list of collectives and individuals proposed for commendation) from the level submitting to the Minister;

Point b) Minutes of the meeting of the Commendation and Award Council at the level proposing to the Minister;

c) A report on achievements of the collectives and individuals proposed for commendation with confirmation from the level submitting to the Minister;

d) A summary of achievements of the collectives and individuals proposed for commendation.

2. Units and local public security organs shall establish the documents for proposing to award the "Certificate of Merit from the Minister of Public Security" and submit them to the Minister (through the General Department for Building the Public Security Force) for review and decision.

Article 63. Documents and Procedures for Proposing to Award Certificates of Merit at the General Department Level

1. The documents for proposing to award Certificates of Merit at the General Department level shall be established in two sets including:

a) A proposal report (with attached list of collectives and individuals proposed for commendation) from the level submitting the commendation;

b) Minutes of the meeting of the Commendation Council at the level submitting the commendation;

c) The report on achievements of the collectives and individuals proposed for commendation with confirmation from the level proposing commendation;

d) A summary of achievements of the collectives and individuals proposed for commendation.

Clause 2. Police units and localities establish the application dossier for commendation to submit to the Commendation and Award Council at the General Department level (through the Permanent Office of the Commendation and Award Council at the General Department level) for examination and decision.

Article 64. Documents and Procedures for Proposing to Award the Titles "People's Armed Forces Hero" and "Labor Hero"

1. The documents proposing to award the titles "People's Armed Forces Hero" and "Labor Hero" shall be established in four sets including:

a) A report from the level submitting to the Minister (with the agreement of the same-level Party Committee);

Point b) Minutes of the meeting of the Commendation and Award Council at the level proposing to the Minister;

c) A report on achievements of the collective or individual proposed for commendation, confirmed by the level submitting to the Minister (if it is a posthumous proposal, then the directly managing unit shall be responsible for writing the achievement report). The achievement report of an individual must include comments from the local authority (or residential ward) regarding compliance with policies and guidelines at the place of residence by the individual and their family;

d) A document agreeing to propose the awarding of the title "People's Armed Forces Hero" and "Labor Hero" from the Provincial Party Committee and the People's Committee of the province;

đ) A summary of the achievements of the collective or individual proposed for commendation.

2. Police units and localities establish documents proposing to award the titles "People's Armed Forces Hero" and "Labor Hero" to submit to the Ministry of Public Security's Commendation Council (through the General Department for Building Public Security Forces) for review and submission to the competent authority for decision.

Article 65. Commendation through Simplified Procedures

1. Commendation through simplified procedures shall be implemented in cases meeting all of the following conditions:

a) Commendation serving political requirements, timely encouraging and motivating cadres, soldiers, and the nationwide people's movement for national security protection;

b) Collectives and individuals achieving outstanding and sudden accomplishments in combat, work, labor, and study;

c) Notable feats and achievements.

2. Documents for proposing rewards through simplified procedures include:

a) A report (attached with a list of collectives and individuals proposed for commendation) from the level submitting to the Minister clearly stating that it is submitted through simplified procedures;

b) A summary of the achievements of the collective or individual proposed for commendation, established by the directly managing agency or unit, clearly stating the achievements and merits proposed for commendation through simplified procedures.

3. Police units and localities immediately consider and propose commendation after the collective or individual achieves the accomplishment.

Chapter VI

PROPOSAL ROUTE, DOCUMENTS AND PROCEDURES FOR AWARDS AND COMMENDATIONS FOR RURAL POLICE,

NEIGHBORHOOD SECURITY GUARD AND THE NATIONAL MOVEMENT

NATIONAL SECURITY PROTECTION

Article 66. Proposal Route

1. For national-level commendations and awards such as medals, orders, honorary titles of the State, the title "National Labor Medalist", and "Prime Minister's Certificate of Merit"): Police units and localities establish commendation documents to submit to the Minister of Public Security (through the General Department for Building Public Security Forces) for review, reporting to the Minister for consideration and decision, and then submitting to the Prime Minister.

2. For commendations and awards by the Ministry of Public Security: Police units and localities establish commendation documents to submit to the Minister of Public Security (through the Department for Mobilizing the Nationwide People's Movement for National Security Protection) for review, reporting to the Minister for consideration and decision.

3. For the titles "Advanced Unit", "Victorious Unit", "Advanced Soldier", "Commendation Soldier at the Base Level", and "Commendation Soldier at the Provincial Level" awarded by the Head of the Rural Police Station or the Head of the Neighborhood Security Guard: They report to the Chairman of the People's Committee of the commune for consideration and proposal to the Chairman of the People's Committee of the district for decision or proposal to higher authorities for decision within their jurisdiction.

Article 67. Documents and Procedures

1. The documents and procedures for proposing to award state-level commendations shall be implemented as prescribed for the People's Public Security Forces.

2. The documents and procedures for proposing to award the title of "Flag of Excellence" by provincial People's Committees, "Victory Unit", "Advanced Unit", Provincial Labor Medalist, "Local Labor Medalist", "Advanced Individual" shall be carried out according to the regulations on awarding titles and forms of commendation of the provincial or centrally-administered city People's Committee where the public security force at the commune level or the People's Ward Guard has its headquarters.

3. The documents and procedures for proposing to award the title of "Flag of Excellence of the Ministry of Public Security" and "Certificate of Merit from the Minister of Public Security" include:

a) A proposal (accompanied by a list of collectives and individuals proposed for commendation) from the submitting level to the Minister;

b) Minutes of the meeting of the Commendation Council at the submitting level to the Minister;

c) Achievement report of the collective with confirmation and stamp of the immediate superior authority's head and confirmation and stamp of the commendation-proposing level; Achievement report of the individual with confirmation of the Head of the Public Security Office or the Head of the People's Ward Guard and confirmation of the same-level People's Committee;

d) A summary of achievements of the collectives and individuals proposed for commendation.

4. The period for calculating the time for annual commendation for the nationwide people's movement to protect national security runs from December 1 of the previous year to November 30 of the following year.

Chapter VII

AWARDS AND OTHER BENEFITS

Article 68. Awards

1. Collectives and individuals who are commended will also receive monetary awards at levels specified in Article 71 of Decree No. 42/2010/NĐ-CP of the Government.

2. Overseas Vietnamese, foreign individuals, and foreign collectives who are commended will also receive commemorative gifts (without monetary awards).

Article 69. Other Benefits

Individuals awarded Orders of various types, State Honorary Titles; "Ho Chi Minh Award", "State Award"; the title of "National Labor Medalist", "Labor Medalist of the entire Public Security Force" in addition to being commended according to regulations, shall also enjoy other benefits as follows:

1. Cases where they are proposed for consideration for promotion in rank or pay grade ahead of schedule:

a) If awarded the title of "Heroic Soldier of the People's Armed Forces" or "Heroic Laborer", they may be proposed for promotion by one rank or pay grade leap.

b) If awarded the "Military Service Order", "Ho Chi Minh Award", or "State Award", they may be proposed for promotion in rank or pay grade ahead of schedule by two years.

c) If awarded the "Bravery Order", "Military Service Order", "National Defense Order", "Labor Order" or the title of "National Labor Medalist", "Labor Medalist of the entire Public Security Force", "People's Teacher", "Outstanding Teacher", "People's Doctor", "Outstanding Doctor", "People's Artist", "Outstanding Artist", they may be proposed for promotion in rank or pay grade ahead of schedule by one year.

2. In cases where multiple honors or commendations are received within the same term, only the highest priority level will be applied. If the year of commendation coincides with the term for promotion in rank or pay grade, it will be considered in the next term. For those who have reached the maximum limit for promotion in rank or pay grade, they will be given priority for recuperative leave.

3. In addition to the above benefits, individuals who are commended will also be given priority for research, study, work, and training to improve their qualifications both domestically and abroad, consistent with their current profession and expertise.

Article 70. Fund for Competition and Awards

The establishment, management, and use of the fund for competition and awards shall be carried out in accordance with Articles 67, 68, and 69 of Decree No. 42/2010/NĐ-CP of the Government.

Part III

IMPLEMENTING PROVISIONS

Article 71. Effective Date

This Circular takes effect from November 10, 2014, and replaces Circular No. 23/2011/TT-BCA dated April 27, 2011, issued by the Minister of Public Security detailing the implementation of certain provisions of Decree No. 42/2010/NĐ-CP of the Government.

Article 72. Organization of Implementation

1. The General Department of Force Building of the People's Public Security has the responsibility to inspect and urge the implementation of this Circular.

2. The Finance Department has the responsibility to guide the implementation of the system for establishing the fund, managing, and using the fund for competition and awards within the People's Public Security, village police, civilian defense, and the nationwide movement for protecting national security in accordance with current laws.

3. The heads of the general departments under the Ministry, the Directors of Public Security, the Directors of Fire Prevention and Fighting Police of provinces and centrally-administered cities are responsible for organizing the implementation of this Circular.

During the implementation process, if there are difficulties or obstacles, relevant units, localities, organizations, and individuals should report to the Ministry of Public Security (through the General Department of Force Building of the People's Public Security) for timely guidance.