The study investigated how free, prior, and informed consent and other existing safeguards on customary tenure impact customary tenure recognition in Vietnam, particularly for local communities in mountainous areas.

The study used a holistic approach by placing the subject in conjunction with existing tenures and customs, changes through time periods, and external factors including climate change, national policy, market, and technology development. In addition, the community consultation process was essential to help the communities adapt to changes in the external environment and conditions.