For over a decade, Vietnam has not passed the Law on Associations, despite its significance and the recognition of the right to form associations in the 2013 Constitution. This delay is largely due to the political structure of Vietnam, where the Communist Party aims to maintain comprehensive control over society. Current regulations treat associations almost as state agencies, requiring government approval for their formation, division, or dissolution. The proposed Law on Associations, last discussed in 2018, faced resistance from the public who reject continued government interference. The need for this law reflects the natural human inclination to form associations, seen throughout history from religious to professional and social groups. However, Vietnam’s approach restricts these freedoms, particularly for new religions and overlapping association scopes, maintaining tight control over the number and type of associations. This restriction affects not only civil liberties but also the professionalization of charitable activities, thereby hindering social resource utilization.