International and National Legal Frameworks for Responding to Climate-Driven Environmental Crimes: A Focus on Vietnam

Background: Environmental crimes related to climate change encompass unlawful acts that harm the natural environment and worsen climate issues. However, Vietnam's legal framework faces significant limitations in addressing these offences, with many harmful acts not classified as crimes and penalties often lacking proportionality and deterrent effects. Therefore, examining Vietnamese criminal law is essential for improving the legal response to these environmental crimes. Methods: The author employs various social science research methods to enhance understanding of environmental crimes. By integrating qualitative legal research, doctrinal analysis, comparative studies, and case studies, the author clarifies both international and national legal frameworks. The doctrinal approach illuminates these frameworks, while the comparative method evaluates Vietnam’s laws in relation to international standards. Additionally, case studies highlight legal gaps that impede the prosecution of serious environmental harm. These combined methods provide a comprehensive analysis of the issue. Results and Conclusions: This article analyses international legal instruments alongside Vietnamese criminal law pertaining to climate-driven environmental crimes. It addresses key challenges, emerging trends, and current policy responses. Ultimately, it proposes legal and institutional reforms aimed at enhancing the legislative framework and improving the effectiveness of law enforcement.