Many studies on involuntary resettlement have shown that insufficient, delayed and under-compensation is one of core causes for failures in rehabilitating resettled people and maintaining their sustainable livelihoods. However, even when the government appropriately and adequately compensated for affected people, is it possible for them to avoid impoverishment, restore their income and livelihood after resettlement? Does it make sure that they received benefits derived from hydropower projects in a fair and equitable manner? The aim of this study is to analyze the principles of resettlement legislation and practice in the Son La Hydropower Project