“In the face of increasingly extreme natural disasters, we need the involvement of the whole community. Only with community participation can protection efforts reach a broader scale. In reality, when communities cooperate and support one another, disaster prevention and response become far more effective,” said Deputy Minister Hiep.
In 2025, natural disasters left 484 people dead or missing and caused estimated economic losses of around 3.9 billion USD in Vietnam. The country also recorded 21 storms and tropical depressions, the highest number ever, along with widespread flooding, with water levels in many river systems exceeding historical records.
Deputy Minister Hiep said that amid increasingly complex disaster developments, the attention and support of the Party and State, together with assistance from international partners, have become an important source of strength for Vietnam in overcoming difficulties. For example, during the 45-day “Quang Trung” campaign, more than 36,000 homes were built, repaired, or handed over to people affected by natural disasters.
Looking ahead, he said Vietnam can no longer focus solely on combating natural disasters, but must shift toward proactive risk management and adaptation. When every citizen has knowledge, every family has response skills, and every community is closely connected, a strong “shield” against natural disasters can be built, he noted.
