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National Target Program to Respond to Climate Change (Vietnam)

Last updated: 23 May, 2011

The strategic objectives of the National Target Program (NTP) are to assess climate change impacts on sectors and regions in specific periods; to develop feasible action plans to effectively respond to climate change in the short-term and long-term to ensure sustainable development of Vietnam; to take opportunities to develop towards a low-carbon economy; and to join the international community’s efforts in mitigating the effects of climate change. The NTP also sets targets on what should be achieved by 2010 and 2015. These include assessing the impact of climate change on Vietnam, identifying measures to combat climate change, and strengthen the capacities of organizations involved in responding to climate change.

Elements of REDD

Management and coordination

A National Steering Committee comprised of the Prime Minister, the Minister for Natural Resources and Environment, the Minister for Planning and Investment, the Minister of Finance, the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, and the Foreign Minister, has been set up to oversee progress on the NTP. The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment is the coordinating Ministry for the plan, including NTP implementation and management. The Ministry of Planning and Investment has responsibility for mainstreaming climate change into Vietnam's development plans. The People's Committees of the provinces are charged with developing and implementing climate change plans in their areas of responsibility, as well as reporting on progress. NGOs and other social organisations are encouraged to actively participate in climate change mitigation activities.

Stakeholder engagement and participation

Stakeholder engagement involves a broad range of stakeholder groups, focusing on local communities, considering current vulnerability and urgent adaptation needs, using two-way discussions and feedback. In the development of a climate action plan the NTP proposes to hold consultation meetings to get recommendations from key agencies, organizations and experts, enterprises, non-governmental organizations, community-based organizations, donors, etc.

Safeguards

In general, the NTP aims to contribute to an improvement in the quality of life as well as the security and safety of the inhabitants. It also seeks to promote social equality by preferential policies to poor vulnerable communities such as those living in mountainous areas or ethnic groups in the Mekong Delta, etc. and programs for preferential groups such as the poor, ethnic groups, women and children. Under its adaptation programme the NTP aims to develop and implement a strategy to protect biodiversity.