Changing Livelihoods Under Stress: Household Transitions and Resilience in Coastal Central Vietnam

Abstract

This study examines how and why coastal households in Central Vietnam adjust their primary livelihood strategies in response to multiple socioeconomic, environmental and health‐related stressors. Using household survey data from 540 coastal households in Hue City collected in 2023, combined with retrospective information on livelihood choices over the period 2014–2023, the study analyzes patterns of livelihood transition and associated resilience outcomes. A multinomial logistic regression model is employed to identify key determinants of household livelihood choices, while nonparametric tests are used to examine differences in perceived livelihood outcomes across livelihood groups. The results reveal a gradual shift away from traditional natural resource‐based livelihoods, particularly fishing and farming, towards service‐based self‐employment and, to a lesser extent, wage work. Household head characteristics, especially education and age, along with access to credit, job opportunities and development programs significantly influence livelihood choices, whereas household perceptions of long‐term environmental and climate‐related risks play a limited role. While most households perceive improvements in income associated with livelihood transitions, perceived benefits related to natural resource protection and climate change or hazard mitigation remain modest. These findings highlight that livelihood transitions in coastal Vietnam primarily support short‐term economic adaptation rather than long‐term livelihood resilience. The study underscores the need for integrated rural development and climate adaptation policies that combine livelihood diversification with education, financial inclusion and institutional support to reduce vulnerability and strengthen household resilience to future stressors.