Determinants of livelihood vulnerability to climate change: Two minority ethnic communities in the northwest mountainous region of Vietnam

Abstract

This study identifies indicators that determine livelihood vulnerability of households to climate change in minority ethnic communities in the northwest mountainous region of Vietnam. The two Thai and H’mong communities were selected for the household survey. Household livelihood vulnerability in each community was assessed using a composite livelihood vulnerability index that references the IPCC framework. Results were analyzed using a multiple linear regression model with latent variables. The study indicated that the H’mong community is significantly more vulnerable than the Thai community. The H’mong community is more vulnerable to climate change mainly due to the higher level of sensitivity to natural disasters while the ability to adapt to climate change is lower. The key factors determining the vulnerability of the both communities are related to the adaptive capacity that households have including social networks, livelihood strategies and their household demographics. The results are helpful in identifying determinants of livelihood vulnerability to climate change of mountainous ethnic minority communities and may be applicable to other mountainous regions worldwide. Strategies to cope with climate change in the region are suggested.