A whisper of history echoes from these walls. This is the Bao Lao Dong building in Hanoi. Right here generations of journalists toiled. Their words shaped Vietnam’s narrative.
The Bao Lao Dong newspaper first appeared on August 14 1929. It was a modest two-page affair. Printed on thick Dap Cau paper. Its size was a mere 22x32cm. The first editions were printed using a lithographic process a painstaking method. Imagine the dedication required. It was published from a small house in Thong Phong ward. This was in Hang Bot district Hanoi. A humble beginning for a publication that would become a titan.
Early editions faced challenges. Distribution was difficult. Censorship loomed. The paper temporarily ceased publication several times. The challenges of wartime were insurmountable.
In 1945 after the August Revolution the Bao Lao Dong was finally able to publish openly. Its address changed to 51 Hang Bo street. Conditions were still difficult but the paper persevered. It was printed in editions of two or four pages. Thousands of copies were distributed weekly. The newspaper became the official voice of the trade unions. This cemented its position in national life.
The paper was pivotal during the Vietnam War. Despite shortages and censorship. It maintained its frequency. It even published twelve issues in twelve days during a national congress. After reunification the paper expanded significantly. It included regional supplements for both North and South Vietnam. The paper reached a wider audience. It grew to sixteen pages.
The Bao Lao Dong received numerous accolades. In 1978 it was awarded the First Class Labor Order. In 1999 it received the First Class Independence Order. It was also recognized for its contributions to society. Its social work touched the lives of millions. This includes the long running ‘Compassionate Heart’ campaign.
In 1995 the Bao Lao Dong participated in international press exhibitions. In Paris and Le Havre. It was selected as one of the world’s top 200 newspapers. A testament to its standing.
The Bao Lao Dong isn’t just ink on paper. It’s the voice of workers. It is the chronicle of Vietnam’s struggle. It stands as a symbol of perseverance. It stands as a testament to the power of the press. It stands as a silent witness to history. And here it is. Before you. The Bao Lao Dong.