Hanoi ultramodern redevelopment displaces residents

Vietnam — Hanoi is undergoing a massive redevelopment to support Vietnam's push for double-digit economic growth, spending $2.4 billion in the first half of 2026 on land clearance for nearly 1,500 projects. The centerpiece is a $28 billion redevelopment along the Red River and a $35.2 billion Olympic sports area backed by Vingroup. The projects aim to modernize infrastructure, improve flood control, and reduce pollution, but have led to displacement of residents, loss of livelihoods, and concerns over compensation and lack of consultation. Property prices have risen sharply, and developers are heavily indebted, posing risks to banks. Residents have protested, with some banners imploring authorities to let families remain.