Assessing livelihood vulnerability induced by climatic hazards: a case study on fishermen communities of Shyamnagar, Shatkhira

Purpose Bangladesh is highly exposed to climatic hazards, placing communities closely connected to the natural environment, such as fishermen, at significant risk. This study aims to understand the effect of climate change on the livelihood of the fisherman community. Design/methodology/approach This study assessed the vulnerability of fishermen communities in three unions of Shyamnagar Upazila: Munshiganj, Burigoalini and Gabura, using the livelihood vulnerability index (LVI) IPCC framework. A total of 219 household-level interviews were conducted. Findings The LVI was found to be 0.5, indicating a high level of vulnerability across all three unions. Key contributing factors included water insecurity, poor health access, natural disasters and climate variability. The climate vulnerability index (CVI) score was minus 0.19, showing high climate vulnerability, as adaptive capacity (0.342) was notably lower than sensitivity (0.477) and exposure (0.748). Among the unions, Gabura exhibited the highest climate vulnerability. Despite these challenges, alternative livelihood practices and local adaptation strategies were observed as important mechanisms helping communities cope with ongoing climatic stressors. Findings highlight the urgent need for targeted adaptation support and sustainable livelihood options in coastal disaster-prone areas. Originality/value The coastal fisherman communities are among the first to be affected by climate change. While studies were done on coastal communities, their livelihood vulnerability to climate change and adaptive capacity has not been assessed thoroughly. This study will explore the interactive relationship between livelihood and climate vulnerability, and it will portray the adaptive dynamics of coastal fishermen.