Trang chủAmid the rapid global decline in biodiversity caused by climate change, environmental degradation, and unsustainable human activities, strengthening regional cooperation in the management and conservation of protected areas has become increasingly urgent. In Southeast Asia—one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots—ASEAN member states are stepping up efforts to exchange knowledge, technology, and effective management models to safeguard their valuable ecosystems. With its diverse system of national parks and nature reserves, Vietnam has emerged as one of the countries actively sharing practical experiences in protected area management with other nations in the region.
Currently, Vietnam has more than 170 protected areas of various types, including national parks, nature reserves, species and habitat conservation areas, and marine protected areas. These sites play a crucial role in preserving forest, wetland, marine, and coastal ecosystems, while providing habitats for thousands of plant and animal species. Many of these species are rare and endangered and are listed in the Vietnam Red Data Book as well as the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List.
Over the past years, Vietnam has gradually improved its policy and legal framework related to protected area management. The Law on Biodiversity, the Law on Forestry, and related implementing regulations have established a relatively comprehensive legal basis for conservation efforts. In addition, national strategies on biodiversity and nature conservation set clear goals to enhance the effectiveness of protected area management while promoting sustainable development and climate change adaptation.
One of the key experiences Vietnam has shared with ASEAN countries is the model of protected area management that involves the active participation of local communities. In reality, people living around protected areas are not only those most affected by conservation policies but can also become an essential force in protecting natural resources. In many localities, sustainable livelihood programs such as eco-tourism development, forest restoration, environmentally friendly aquaculture, and organic agriculture have been implemented. These initiatives help reduce pressure on natural resources within protected areas while improving the income and well-being of local communities.
Vietnam has also shared its experience in applying science and technology to biodiversity monitoring and protected area management. Tools such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Global Positioning System (GPS) devices, unmanned aerial vehicles (drones), and camera traps are increasingly used to monitor wildlife populations and forest conditions. The data collected from these technologies not only supports scientific research but also helps management authorities make timely decisions to protect ecosystems and wildlife more effectively.
Within the ASEAN cooperation framework, numerous workshops, exchange programs, and training activities have been organized to enhance knowledge-sharing among member states. Vietnam regularly participates in and contributes actively to regional forums on nature conservation. These platforms often focus on issues such as transboundary protected area management, conservation of endangered species, and strengthening ecological connectivity among protected areas across the region.
Another important area in which Vietnam shares experience with ASEAN partners is the management of eco-tourism in protected areas. With its rich natural landscapes, many of Vietnam’s national parks have become attractive destinations for both domestic and international tourists. However, tourism development is carefully managed within a conservation framework, including strict planning regulations, visitor management systems, and awareness-raising programs to encourage environmentally responsible behavior among tourists. This model is widely regarded as an effective approach that balances biodiversity conservation with economic benefits, generating revenue for protected area management while creating sustainable livelihoods for local communities.
Vietnam also emphasizes the importance of strengthening capacity for protected area management staff. Through training programs, professional workshops, and international cooperation initiatives, many forest rangers and conservation managers have improved their expertise in ecology, natural resource management, law enforcement, and conservation communication. Strengthening human resources is considered a key factor in improving the overall effectiveness of protected area governance, especially as new environmental challenges continue to emerge.
Looking ahead, ASEAN countries are expected to deepen their collaboration in nature conservation. Sharing data, management experiences, and financial resources will play a vital role in enhancing the protection of the region’s critical ecosystems. With the knowledge and achievements accumulated over many years, Vietnam is well positioned to serve as a bridge in promoting regional initiatives on biodiversity conservation.
Nature conservation is no longer solely the responsibility of individual countries but has become a shared global mission. In this context, Vietnam’s active efforts to share its experience in protected area management with ASEAN countries not only contribute to strengthening conservation outcomes in the region but also demonstrate the country’s commitment and responsibility in global efforts to preserve nature for future generations.