ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the particular searches for new perspectives that could challenge the prevailing approach, concerning mainly the relationship between ethnic minorities and the state of Vietnam. The cultural traditions of ethnic minorities are displayed in museums, represented in festivals, ceremonial events, and various tourist spots, and have been deemed as possessing a positive value in the national project naming Vietnam a multi-ethnic and multi-cultural country. Contradictory images are appearing of the ethnic minorities of Vietnam. Throughout Vietnam narratives can be heard stating that enriched cultural diversity is the pride of the country, moreover, the culture of ethnic minorities has been depicted as the most fundamental factor that comprises this cultural diversity. Vietnam's formal position still claims that the currently used ethnic classification system and nomenclature are based on the three standards of language, material life and culture, and ethnic consciousness.
