This thesis examines how globalization has affected Vietnam's view and treatment of religious institutions. In alarger context, it argues that the conditions of globalization foster increased liberalism and the latent development of civilsociety. The implications of globalization on religion in Vietnam are explored through a case study of the Catholic Church inVietnam from 1975 to 2004. The Catholic Church is examined during two different periods: during autarky from 1975 to theDoi Moi reforms in 1986, and during international interdependence from 1987 to 2004.Isolated from international norms and pressures during its period of autarky, Vietnam suppressed, rigidly controlled, and severely restricted the Catholic Church. As Vietnam entered its present period of global integration and interdependency, Vietnam's view and treatment of the Catholic Church improved: suppression lessened, controls eased, and many restrictionslifte