Livelihood vulnerability of Vietnam rural household: An analysis using the livelihood vulnerability framework

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the livelihood vulnerability of Vietnam households in rural areas to climate change impacts. By applying the livelihood vulnerability index (LVI-IPCC), a composite index that measures exposure, sensitivity, and adaptive capacity to climate change. This paper calculated the LVI-IPCC index using data from 26,741 household observations from the Vietnam Household Living Standard Survey across 63 provinces in Vietnam. Results showed significant regional disparities in livelihood vulnerability levels. The Mekong Delta, Northern Midlands and Mountainous, and Highland regions had the highest overall vulnerable index scores among Vietnam's major regions, indicating greater vulnerability to climate change impacts on rural livelihoods. At the provincial level, Cao Bang, Thua Thien-Hue, Quang Tri, Kon Tum, Kien Giang, Soc Trang, Son La, Quang Ngai, Lao Cai, and Tra Vinh emerged as the most vulnerable provinces. The study highlights the need for targeted adaptation strategies and policies to enhance the resilience of rural livelihoods, particularly in the most vulnerable regions and provinces identified. Finally, the authors suggest policy implications for adapting to climate change impacts and mitigating the negative effects on the livelihoods of rural households in Vietnam.