Hanh Dang, Otago University

Hanh’s research topic: Climate Change Vulnerability and Adaptive Capacity of Ethnic Minorities in Mountainous Northern Vietnam

My research uses qualitative data from Lai Chau province in Vietnam to analyse how agroecological conditions and socio-economic marginality influence livelihoods and climate-induced adaptation in this region. Supported by the New Zealand Postgraduate Development Field Research Award, I was able to successfully carry out my fieldwork, which involved in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with a range of participants including men and women from ethnic minority communities living in Ban Bo commune, local government officials at the district, commune and village levels, and non-government stakeholders. I also conducted field observations and document analysis to complement these discussions.

During my fieldwork, I stayed in some local homes, which provided me the opportunities to conduct interviews and gain first-hand insights into local cultures and practices. I also spent time speaking with local government officials, visiting public works, and participating in community events. These experiences deepened my understanding of how ethnic minority communities, local authorities, and organisations respond to the impacts of climate change, as well as the challenges they face and the opportunities available to them.

I am deeply appreciative of the financial support from the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) and DevNet. Without their support, my field research would have had a big financial obstacle. I am grateful to the University of Otago, my academic supervisors, the CISDOMA Director and project staff, the in-country research assistants, and all participants who made this Field Research Award a success.

Hanh Dang – PhD Candidate, University of Otago, September 2025.