Seminar: “A Human Economy: Emerging Global Trends and Implications for Middle-Income Countries”

04 Jun, 2026

On May 29, 2026, the College of Economics, Law and Government (CELG), University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City (UEH), in collaboration with Oxfam in Vietnam, organized the panel discussion “A Human Economy: Emerging Global Trends and Implications for Middle-Income Countries” at UEH Campus B, 279 Nguyen Tri Phuong Street, Dien Hong Ward, Ho Chi Minh City. The event aimed to share people-centered development trends while discussing their policy implications for developing economies, including Vietnam.

Representing Oxfam were Ms. Vu Thi Quynh Hoa, Country Director of Oxfam in Vietnam; Ms. Nguyen Thi Hong Hanh, Deputy Chief of Office of the National Target Program on New Rural Development and Sustainable Poverty Reduction; together with Oxfam's international experts, including Mr. Max Lawson, Head of Global Policy and Advocacy; Mr. Anthony Kamande, Strategic Research Advisor; and Ms. Maaza Seyoum, Senior Economic Justice Manager.

Representing UEH were Dr. Tran Thi Tuan Anh, Vice Rector of the College of Economics, Law and Government; Mr. Le Thanh Nhan, M.A., Head of the Office of the College of Economics, Law and Government; Dr. Ho Quoc Thong, Vice Dean of the Sschool of Economics; Dr. Nguyen Hoang Bao, Head of the Department of Planning, Investment and Development course; and Dr. Bui Xuan Thanh, Director of the UEH School of Political and Social Sciences, together with UEH faculty members and more than 200 graduate and undergraduate students.

Dr. Tran Thi Tuan Anh delivers the opening remarks

In her opening speech, Dr. Tran Thi Tuan Anh emphasized the importance of a people-centered development approach in the context of today's global socio-economic challenges. She also reaffirmed the role of academic dialogue and international cooperation in advancing knowledge and contributing to sustainable development.

Mr. Max Lawson presents the topic "Global Inequality Trends and Their Implications for Vietnam"

Opening the discussion, Mr. Max Lawson, Head of Global Policy and Advocacy, shared his perspectives on inequality. He noted that inequality today is shaped by historical contexts, economic policies, corporate power, and unequal access to opportunities. At the same time, the rapid development of technology and artificial intelligence is creating new risks of widening income and employment gaps. Regarding Vietnam, he commended the country's achievements in combining economic growth with poverty reduction and social equity, while emphasizing the importance of inclusive development policies in the next stage.

Mr. Anthony Kamande presents "From Data to Campaigns: How Global Reports Use Data to Influence Policy"

Continuing the discussion on inequality, Mr. Anthony Kamande addressed the role of macro-level reports in policy development. He emphasized that research should not only generate knowledge but also stimulate dialogue and contribute to shaping public policy. He also highlighted the importance of "killer stats" - memorable, impactful statistics that effectively communicate research evidence and influence public discourse.

Ms. Maaza Seyoum delivers an inspiring presentation titled "From Local Roots to Global Impact"

Concluding the presentation session, Ms. Maaza Seyoum emphasized the importance of community voices in driving social change through her presentation "From Local Roots to Global Impact." According to her, sustainable development and economic justice can only be achieved when solutions originate from the real needs of local communities, are supported by research evidence, and are connected through collaborative networks to generate broader impact.

Highlights from the discussion session between the speakers, the School of Economics leadership, and students

The program continued with an interactive discussion session featuring student participation. Dr. Ho Quoc Thong introduced the concept of a "Human Economy," emphasizing the values of solidarity, community responsibility, and social trust alongside economic growth. Ms. Nguyen Thi Hong Hanh shared practical perspectives on housing access inequality and encouraged students to equip themselves with the skills needed to adapt to societal changes. During discussions on inequality in access to information and workers' rights, the speakers stressed the need for policies that reduce information inequality while strengthening community collaboration to promote social equity and advance education and healthcare as fundamental human rights.

UEH representatives present commemorative gifts to the speakers and representatives of Oxfam in Vietnam

The panel discussion concluded successfully with a commemorative gift presentation to the speakers and representatives from Oxfam. The event not only provided diverse perspectives on inequality and economic justice but also fostered meaningful discussions on placing people at the center of development.