Climate Change Exposure, Sensitivity, and Adaptive Capacity of Hill Communities in Rangamati District, Bangladesh

The Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) represent one of the most economically and socially marginalized regions of Bangladesh, characterized by persistent challenges in income generation, employment opportunities, health services, education, water and sanitation, and infrastructure development. In addition to these structural vulnerabilities, climate change poses a significant and escalating threat to livelihoods and ecosystem stability in the region. The World Bank has identified all three districts of the CHT among Bangladesh’s top climate change hotspot areas, underscoring the urgency for targeted vulnerability assessments and adaptation planning. This study undertakes a community-based climate vulnerability assessment to examine exposure, sensitivity, and adaptive capacity of hill communities in selected areas of the CHT. Using household surveys, key informant interviews, and participatory appraisal techniques, the study analyzes socio-economic and environmental indicators to identify major climate risks and vulnerable population groups. The findings aim to support evidence-based policy formulation and the design of locally appropriate adaptation strategies that enhance resilience and promote sustainable development in the Chittagong Hill Tracts