Seasonal livelihood vulnerability in a climate-sensitive wetland of Bangladesh: Linking income insecurity, migration, and institutional coping responses

Abstract

This study examines seasonal livelihood vulnerability in Tahirpur Upazila, located in the flood-prone Sunamganj District of Bangladesh. Using a self-administered questionnaire survey, data were collected from 414 households, revealing a complex and spatially varied vulnerable landscape. The Livelihood Vulnerability Index (LVI) identified the central region as highly vulnerable, particularly in areas adjacent to the Jadukata River. The Seasonal Livelihood Vulnerability Index (SLVI) further highlighted the northeastern region as experiencing very high levels of seasonal vulnerability. Notably, 35.7% of households reported being in “bad” or “worse” conditions due to seasonal unemployment, while 48.3% relied heavily on migration as a coping mechanism. Gender-disaggregated analysis revealed that female respondents exhibited higher exposure and lower access to social safety nets, reflecting gendered disparities in resilience. Although microfinance institutions and NGOs were present, their support was limited; 36.7% of respondents had never accessed financial aid or microcredit services. Similarly, 34.3% of households reported never receiving government relief. Regression analysis revealed a significant positive relationship between LVI and SLVI (R² = 0.5018), indicating that baseline vulnerabilities exacerbate seasonal stresses. These findings emphasize the urgent need for integrated policy interventions that address both chronic and seasonal dimensions of vulnerability, with a particular focus on strengthening adaptive capacity and expanding access to financial support mechanisms in flood-affected communities.