Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) in Vietnam represents a critical strategy adopted by the government to ensure the sustainable development of the country’s water resources. IWRM aims to coordinate the development and management of water, land, and related resources to maximize economic and social welfare without compromising the sustainability of vital ecosystems.
Policies and Institutional Framework
| i. | Vietnam enacted the 2012 Law on Water Resources, which emphasizes the importance of an integrated management approach. |
| ii. | The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MONRE) serves as the lead agency responsible for water resource management |
| iii. | Several river basin organizations have been established to manage river basins across sectors and administrative boundaries |
Key Challenges
| i. | Fragmentation in water governance, with overlapping responsibilities among multiple ministries and agencies. |
| ii. | Limited technical and financial capacity at the local level. |
| iii. | Inadequate and unreliable data for evidence-based decision-making. |
| iv. | Water pollution caused by industrial and agricultural activities. |
Progress and Initiatives
| i. | Vietnam has collaborated with international organizations such as UNDP, GIZ, and the World Bank to implement IWRM projects. |
| ii. | Efforts are underway to develop improved water monitoring systems. |
| iii. | River basin management is being strengthened through action plans and participatory planning involving local communities. |