[FLC 23-03] National Forum on Saline Intrusion and Climate Change Adaptation in the Mekong Delta

The National Forum gathered over 60 representatives from ministries, local authorities, and youth organizations to discuss strategies for enhancing resilience and promoting sustainable development in the Mekong Delta.

On September 16, 2025, the National Forum on Salinity Intrusion and Climate Change Adaptation in the Mekong Delta in Dong Thap province brought together more than 60 participants from ministries, provincial Departments of Natural Resources and Environment, Departments of Education and Training, Youth Unions, universities, and media agencies across six Mekong Delta provinces.

The activity is under the project “Enhancing Communication Capacity for Climate Change Adaptation in the Mekong Delta,” funded by the Embassy of Finland in Vietnam, implemented by the Center for Environment and Community Resources Development (CECAD).

Particpants, guests, and CECAD attending the Forum (Photo: Vinh Long Newspaper & Television)

The event served as a multi-stakeholder platform for dialogue and collaboration, connecting policymakers, experts, and youth representatives to share practical experiences and policy directions to strengthen the region’s resilience to drought, salinity intrusion, and climate change. Key presentations included national policy directions from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, the role of education and school-based communication from the Ministry of Education and Training, and exemplary community initiatives shared by the Youth Unions of Vinh Long, Tay Ninh, and Dong Thap.

Representative of the Department of Dike Management and Disaster Prevention

– Ministry of Agriculture and Environment presenting at the Forum (Photo: CECAD)

Representative of the Department of Planning and Finance

– Ministry of Education and Training delivering a presentation at the Forum (Photo: CECAD)

During the roundtable discussion, delegates emphasized that young people play a pivotal role - both as those directly affected and as agents of change driving climate action. The forum concluded with major policy recommendations: enhancing innovative, multi-channel communication; applying digital technologies and early warning systems; promoting sustainable livelihoods and green economy; and strengthening intersectoral collaboration to empower youth participation.

Roundtable discussion session at the Forum (Photo: CECAD)

The forum not only contributed to shaping practical policy directions for the Mekong Delta but also reaffirmed the vital role of youth and community engagement in building a resilient and sustainable future for the region.