THE ROLE OF THE BORDER GUARDS IN SUSTAINABLE POVERTY REDUCTION FOR ETHNIC MINORITIES IN THE BORDER AREAS OF BINH PHUOC PROVINCE

Abstract

Poverty reduction is a major policy of the Party and State to narrow the gap between the rich and the poor, especially in border areas where many ethnic minorities live in difficult socio-economic conditions. Border guards, tasked with protecting border security, have actively contributed to poverty reduction programs for people in Binh Phuoc province. This study analyzes poverty reduction programs and projects implemented by the border guards via collecting field data and interviewing officials and local people. The results show that many programs, such as livelihood support, farming guidance, housing construction, and health service provision, have achieved success in contributing to improving the lives of ethnic minorities. However, there are still limitations such as lack of financial resources and difficulties in accessing basic services. The study has clarified the important role of the border guards in sustainable poverty reduction in the border areas and proposed several solutions to improve policy effectiveness, including increasing infrastructure investment, human resource training, and coordination between functional agencies.