Post-flood recovery in the central coastal plain of Vietnam: determinants and policy implications

This study focused on the timing aspects of post-flood recovery, which has not been adequately considered by previous scholars. Data for analysis were obtained from direct interviews with households in Quang Dien and Phong Dien coastal plain districts of Thua Thien Hue Province, Central Vietnam. Both quantitative and qualitative approaches were employed to gain insight into factors driving household rehabilitation. The findings accentuated improvements in women's post-flood resilience as a result of effective interventions from communities, authorities and NGOs. Diversifying livelihoods into the non-agricultural sector was also an important factor to shorten the rehabilitation processes. Additionally, the results emphasized the efficacy of social interactions, notably between relatives and informal groups, after floods. The potential negative consequences of reliance on government support in household rehabilitation efforts are also preliminarily discussed. We conclude by suggesting a number of policies and interventions related to poverty eradication, livelihood diversification, strengthening community cohesion, and breaking down the reliance psychology.