Brian Jeffrey
Dive into the insights shared in the article “Journalist Nguyen Phu Trong’s ethical journalism practices,” penned by Mr. Quoc Phong, the former Deputy Editor-in-Chief of Thanh Nien newspaper. This piece was featured on VietNamNet on February 10, 2024.
Reflecting on the journey, Vu Lan, a fellow student of Literature from the Faculty of Literature at Hanoi University (now the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University, Hanoi), had close ties with the renowned teacher Nguyen Hung Vi.
Post-graduation, Vu Lan was called upon by the Communist Review’s editorial board to contribute to the Literature and Society section, leading to a 20-year partnership with journalist Nguyen Phu Trong until Mr. Trong’s transition to Deputy Secretary of the Hanoi Party Committee.
Through shared experiences residing in the communal housing on Nguyen Thuong Hien Street in Hanoi, Vu Lan and Nguyen Phu Trong created lasting memories, with Mr. Trong’s humble activities like purchasing hot water before work standing out.
Operating on the same floor, Nguyen Phu Trong and Vu Lan’s paths intersected frequently at the Party Building Committee and the Literature and Society section, where Vu Lan’s expertise even extended to providing haircuts for Mr. Trong, a practice that evolved into a money-saving routine.
Delving into Mr. Trong’s conduct in terms of royalty distribution, a significant aspect of ethical journalism, showcases his meticulous and fair approach from his editorial tenure to his leadership roles in the Party and State.
Each article attributed to Mr. Trong bore his personal touch, having been authored, reviewed, and perfected by him, setting a standard of thoroughness and attention to detail.
Recognized for treating his peers to meals upon receiving royalties, Mr. Trong exemplified integrity in his editorial responsibilities, a practice that persisted throughout his various leadership roles.
Guiding his assistants with precision, Mr. Trong ensured a refined review process before content publication, emphasizing quality and accuracy in every piece attributed to him.
Intimately acquainted with Nguyen Phu Trong, journalist Vu Lan sheds light on the royalty distribution philosophy employed by Mr. Trong, distinguishing between articles co-written and independently developed by him.
Having reorganized the distribution of royalties upon joining the Hanoi Party Committee, Mr. Trong diverted the funds towards communal expenses and charitable initiatives, aligning his principles with communal support and shared benefits.
