The historical evolution of van chai from within the administrative structure of farming villages is explained, and their geographical distribution described. The social and management functions and administration of the ‘floating...
moreThe historical evolution of van chai from within the administrative structure of farming villages is explained, and their geographical distribution described. The social and management functions and administration of the ‘floating village’ type of van chai is explained with particular reference to the lagoons of Thua Thien Hue Province. The van chai is the focus for the spiritual activities of fishing, so in each fishing community founded by migrants along the South-Central coast a van chai was established to worship the Whale God. These reflected the traditional folk and professional beliefs and mutual assistance within the community. Analysis of the religious and social functions and organization of the ‘guild-type’ van chai of the South-Central coast is based on Van Thuy Tu, Phan Thiet City, Binh Thuan Province. The general design principles of pre-existing management systems in Vietnam are examined in terms of rights, rules, monitoring and accountability, conflict resolution, and sanctions.
