ABSTRACT
Rapid growth of the biosphere reserve (BR) network across Vietnam indicates a strong interest in using the BR model as an international designation. Although BRs are established under the national framework, their operational control occurs at the provincial level, which results in weak political and public support. Due to their lack of legal recognition, BRs do not receive sufficient engagement and support from central and provincial governments, sectoral ministries and line agencies. Limited understanding of the BR concept coupled with weak communication leads to the BR model in Vietnam being often only perceived as an “international title”. Consequently, most attention has been paid to technical compliance with the Statutory Framework rather than practical models and practices. Top-down, state control, and strong sectoral preference limits cross-sectoral participation and collaboration, resulting in BRs often being managed in the traditional style for protected areas, with a focus only on the core zone. Enhancing public awareness through improved communication of the benefits of the BR concept in supporting conservation and sustainable development is necessary to change the current entrenched political systems that are resistant to the new models of BR planning, management and investment.
