Plagiarism, data fabrication, falsification of research results, or the use of AI to generate "fake" data may result in the withdrawal of scientific papers, revocation of research funding, or even an indefinite ban from scientific research activities.
These are the highlights of the new guidelines on scientific integrity and professional ethics in scientific research and technological development, issued by the Ministry of Science and Technology under Decision No. 2557/QD-BKHCN, dated May 25, 2026.
For the first time, a comprehensive framework for scientific integrity has been established in Vietnam. It sets rigorous standards for academic honesty, data transparency, and accountability throughout the entire research and development process. The document was developed based on the 2025 Law on Science, Technology, and Innovation and Decree No. 262/2025/ND-CP, while incorporating international best practices from OECD countries, Europe, Singapore, and China.
Under these guidelines, acts such as fabricating or falsifying research data, plagiarism in any form, and unethical authorship—such as "gift authorship" or excluding contributors who made significant impacts—are all classified as violations of scientific integrity. Specifically, plagiarism, data fabrication, concealing conflicts of interest, or misrepresenting the fundamental nature of research are categorized as serious violations.
A particularly notable addition is the first-ever set of specific regulations regarding the use of AI in scientific research. According to the guidelines, AI must not be used to generate fabricated data, fake images, or non-existent references. Furthermore, unverified AI-generated content is strictly prohibited from being used as legitimate scientific reference material.
As Vietnam continues to increase investment, expand research initiatives, and promote international scientific publishing, the issues of scientific integrity, professional ethics, and the accountability of both organizations and individuals have become increasingly urgent.
