Recognition by participation? Social justice and Equality in Community-based Ecotourism among the Hmong in Sa Pa, Viet Nam

Sammanfattning: This qualitative study was conducted in Viet Nam to see how members of the Hmong ethnic minority group, and women in particular, navigate as participants of Community-based Ecotourism (CBET) in Sa Pa district, Lào Cai province. The study draws on Fraser’s recognition theory to investigate whether Hmong people are recognised or withdrawn from participation due to misrecognition. The study shows that misrecognition exist compared to the majority ethnic group, the Kinh, but that international tourism has nonetheless contributed to positive changes with regards to cultural preservation and participation in tourism activities. Gender roles have changed in favour of women’s empowerment. Yet Hmong people continue to have a low social status in a hierarchical and multi-ethnic society. Vulnerability regards to e.g., education level, early marriage traditions, remoteness, economic instability, livelihood, location, access and standard of living. Redistribution has improved by linkages and by assistance from authorities, INGOs and social enterprises. Poverty has declined but is still high. The future for CBET is reliant on environmental protection and cultural preservation for long-term viability and sustainability.