Transforming Vietnam’s Food System: Join the Movement for Low-Emission Reforms Today!

Public policy experts are questioning the effectiveness of multistakeholder forums (MSFs) in driving change in low-emission food production. Even after nearly 30 years of discussions, there’s little progress in reducing greenhouse gas emissions from these systems in Vietnam.

Researchers from Nong Lam University, in collaboration with Flinders University’s Professor Thuy Pham, recently assessed 17 MSFs in Vietnam. Their findings highlight that while some knowledge was shared, it hasn’t led to significant improvements in emission reductions or social equity.

Professor Pham pointed out that these forums operate on different levels—regional, national, and provincial—without sufficient coordination. Many stakeholders are unaware of these forums, which hampers collaboration and information sharing.

The researchers argue that instead of creating more forums, policymakers should focus on turning the innovative ideas generated in these discussions into actionable policies. They emphasize the need for a comprehensive approach that involves all stakeholders, including local communities and ethnic minorities, to create sustainable food systems.

Dr. Tang Thi Kim Hong, a coauthor of the study, stressed that Vietnam’s strategies for reducing emissions and ensuring food security require input from various groups, including state and non-state actors. It’s crucial to include diverse voices in the decision-making process to achieve inclusivity in addressing low-emission food systems.

Often, powerful stakeholders dominate these forums, sidelining local communities, Indigenous peoples, and women. The researchers suggest that it’s vital for policymakers to learn from existing MSFs to understand their strengths and weaknesses. This way, they can build on what’s already working rather than starting from scratch.

The article titled “Multistakeholder forums in the Mekong Delta, Vietnam: Stakeholders’ perspectives regarding their outcomes and effectiveness for low-emission food systems” was published in World Development Perspectives. It emphasizes the urgency of actionable insights and broad stakeholder engagement in combating climate change in food production.

Food systems are significant contributors to global greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for about 30%. Addressing emissions within these systems requires collaboration across various sectors and levels, ensuring all voices are heard and respected.

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