Classification and prediction of rural socio-economic vulnerability (IRSV) integrated with social-ecological system (SES)

Vulnerability is one of the prominent features of rural areas due to their distinctive characteristics, such as remoteness, geographical conditions, and socio-economic dependence on primary sectors. Addressing the vulnerability of rural areas in terms of the rural development paradigm is both urgent and relevant. This study aims to address this issue using the current state-of-the-art machine learning method, using the socio-ecological framework and integrated vulnerability index of villages in Lampung Province in Indonesia. The study attempts to predict and classify villages' vulnerability to be applied for better planning and rural development. Based on random forest classification and decision tree algorithm, the results show that the village governance system represented by rural water management and the level of education of village leaders are suitable prediction variables related to the low vulnerability index. This study can draw lessons learned to improve rural development in developing countries.