The Livelihood Activities of the Ruc People in Vietnam have Shifted from Traditional Ecological Adaptation to Facing Challenges Caused by Environmental Changes

Background and objective: This article examines the transformation of the livelihoods of the Ruc people, a minority ethnic group in Vietnam, as they shift from traditional agriculture—adapted to their natural environment—to new livelihood activities while confronting environmental challenges. The study aims to understand how natural and social environmental changes impact the livelihoods of the Ruc people and to explore their adaptation strategies. Methods: The research employs participant observation and in-depth interviews within the community to gather detailed data. The theoretical framework of political ecology in new ecological anthropology is applied to analyze the intricate relationships between humans and their environment, along with the influence of economic, cultural, and political factors on the Ruc people's livelihoods. Results: The results indicate that state policies have led to fundamental changes in the livelihoods of the Ruc people, contributing to the stabilization and development of their way of life. However, the community also faces challenges due to fluctuations in the natural and social environment. Forest protection regulations and climate change have significantly impacted the traditional farming and livestock practices of the Ruc people. These factors have decreased agricultural productivity, land scarcity, and conflicts over land use. The Ruc community faces major challenges in maintaining their traditional livelihoods under increasing pressure from environmental changes. Conclusion: The study highlights the importance of developing supportive policies to assist the Ruc people in effectively transitioning their livelihoods. Specific interventions are needed to support sustainable livelihoods while preserving Ruc's ecological knowledge and cultural identity. The findings and recommendations from this research are valuable for designing sustainable development programs for minority communities in Vietnam, especially in the context of increasing climate change and environmental challenges.