The Militia and Self-Defence Force of Vietnam is built in the direction of "solidity and extensiveness", with high overall quality, first and foremost the political one, and organized into active mobile force and widespread force with appropriate quantity, proportion, and rational organizational structure.

Vietnam Militia units are organized in communes, precincts or district towns, while the self-defence units are organized in political, socio-political bodies, State offices, civil services and economic organizations. 

The First National Congress of the CPV issued "the Resolution on Self-Defence Teams" on March 28, 1935 which is regarded as the foundation date of Vietnam's Militia and Self-Defence Force. The development history of the Militia and Self-Defence Force has been closely linked to the cause of national independence, and the Homeland's construction and protection.

Vietnam Militia and Self-Defence Force is the armed force of the masses that is not separated from production activities and work, placed under the leadership of the CPV, the management of the Government and people's committees at various levels, the unified guidance and command of the Minister of National Defence, and the direct guidance and command of local military headquarters.