After much consideration, I’ve decided to suspend publication of Mekong Dispatch. The Mekong remains one of the most vital and contested regions in the world—its waters sustain millions, while its future is shaped by climate pressures, hydropower, and geopolitics. Covering this dynamic story has been both a privilege and a passion.

That said, my current workload simply doesn’t allow me to continue regular postings with the consistency and depth the Dispatch deserves.

For those of you who want to stay engaged, I’m glad to recommend The Long Mekong (longmekong.substack.com), a thoughtful publication dedicated to the river and its people. I encourage you to subscribe and continue following the issues that matter most to this region.

Thank you for your continued interest, support, and curiosity about the Mekong and the challenges it faces.

Best regards,
James Borton

Across Southeast Asia, leaders are grappling with the immense and overlapping challenges of climate change, biodiversity loss, and sustainable development. Commitments under the Paris Climate Agreement and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework have brought unprecedented attention to the climate-nature nexus. Yet even as environmental consciousness grows and governments pledge to protect our planet’s ecosystems, a critical component of regional sustainability is being dangerously overlooked: the fish of the Mekong River.

Since the release of WWF Asia’s 2024 report, “The Mekong’s Forgotten Fishes,” which exposed the dramatic decline in fish populations across one of the planet’s most biodiverse and productive river systems, there has been little to no sign of recovery. Despite the Mekong River Basin contributing around 15 percent of the world’s inland fish catch—more than 2.3 million tons each year—this vital resource remains chronically undervalued in both policy and investment. With an estimated annual worth of over US$11 billion as of 2015, the fishery now stands at a dangerous crossroads, teetering on the edge of irreversible collapse.

The Mekong’s fishes are not just a biological asset; they are the lifeblood of a region. Tens of millions of people across Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Vietnam, Myanmar, and China depend on the river’s bounty for food, income, and cultural identity. Yet these fish—over 1,100 species strong, many of which are endemic—face an onslaught of escalating threats. Hydropower dams, sand mining, overfishing, pollution, habitat fragmentation, and the impacts of climate change are combining in a perfect storm of ecological disruption.

A River Under Siege

The WWF’s report is unequivocal in its diagnosis: the Mekong’s fisheries are in crisis. And this is not a distant threat—it is already unfolding. Fish catches are declining across major parts of the basin. Once-abundant species like the Mekong giant catfish—a cultural and ecological icon—are now critically endangered. Entire aquatic food webs are being destabilized, with cascading impacts on local economies and nutrition.

The construction of dams, particularly in the upper Mekong (known as the Lancang in China), has altered natural flow regimes, blocked migratory routes, and degraded spawning grounds. The Tonle Sap Lake, often referred to as the “beating heart of the Mekong,” has seen significant changes in seasonal flood patterns due to upstream hydrological alterations. These shifts are devastating to species that rely on the lake’s floodplains for breeding and feeding.

Meanwhile, the political response to the Mekong’s fisheries crisis remains fragmented and sluggish. At the center of the region’s transboundary water governance sits the Mekong River Commission (MRC), a body tasked with fostering cooperation between the lower basin countries—Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam. But despite its mandate, the MRC has repeatedly struggled to enforce ecological safeguards, particularly when it comes to protecting fish populations.

A major part of the challenge lies in the MRC’s limited authority. As a consensus-based organization, it lacks binding enforcement power, meaning that member states are under no legal obligation to comply with its recommendations. This has left the commission in a largely advisory role, issuing impact assessments and convening consultations — many of which are ignored or overridden when national interests dictate otherwise.

For countries like Laos and Cambodia, hydropower development is seen as a cornerstone of economic growth. The proliferation of dams, particularly on the mainstream Mekong and its tributaries, has been driven by the promise of energy exports and foreign investment, often from neighboring countries or China. These projects, however, come with steep ecological costs—blocking critical fish migration routes, altering sediment flow, and reducing water quality—yet they frequently move forward despite warnings from environmental experts and civil society.

Why Fish Matter—Now More Than Ever

The significance of the Mekong’s fish goes far beyond numbers and dollars. In Cambodia, for instance, fish provide over 60% of animal protein intake—a vital pillar of food security. In Laos and parts of Vietnam, small-scale fisheries are a primary livelihood source, especially for women and marginalized communities. These fisheries also act as a social safety net, particularly in times of economic hardship or climate-induced agricultural failures.

What is at stake is not only ecological collapse but also a potential humanitarian crisis. If the decline continues unchecked, we will witness an increase in poverty, malnutrition, and displacement across the basin. And while alternative protein sources may exist in theory, they are not readily accessible or affordable for millions who depend on wild-caught fish.

A Call for Regional and Global Action

The WWF report makes a compelling case for change, urging governments, donors, and development banks to recognize inland fisheries as essential infrastructure—every bit as critical as roads, power plants, or irrigation systems. Recommendations include:

• Moratoriums on new dams in ecologically critical zones

• Stronger regional cooperation on fisheries management

• Investment in habitat restoration and fish passage technologies

• Robust monitoring and data collection to inform adaptive strategies

• Recognition of local and Indigenous fishing rights and knowledge systems

In short, saving the Mekong’s fishes is not a side issue—it is central to sustainable development, regional stability, and climate resilience.

The Future of the Mekong is Still Unwritten

We are at a crossroads. The fate of the Mekong’s fishery—and the millions who depend on it—hangs in the balance. The question is whether decision-makers will continue to turn a blind eye to this unfolding tragedy or finally act with the urgency the situation demands.

The opportunity to reverse course is still within reach. But time is not on our side. The Mekong River has nourished civilizations for millennia; we owe it—and its forgotten fishes—a future.

From the deadly flash floods that recently swept through Central Texas to the inundated streets of Bangkok, a disturbing global pattern is emerging: floods are becoming more frequent, more intense, and more destructive. This escalating crisis underscores the growing impact of climate change, rapid urbanization, and inadequate infrastructure in both developed and developing regions. What was once considered extreme weather is becoming the new normal, raising urgent questions about how prepared the world is for a future where rising waters may define our landscapes, economies, and lives.

The global climate crisis has brought with it a troubling surge in extreme weather events. Among the most disruptive and deadly are floods, which are now occurring with increased frequency and intensity around the world. In Southeast Asia, the monsoon season has long presented flooding risks, but recent years have seen unprecedented rainfall patterns and more widespread damage. Thailand is once again on high alert as its central authorities brace for another period of intense rainfall and elevated river levels.

On July 6, 2025, the Office of Natural Water Resources (ONWR), in coordination with key agencies such as the Meteorological Department and the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, issued an urgent nationwide warning for the period of July 6–12. The alert advises the public to prepare for flash floods, runoff, and landslides—especially in mountainous and low-lying regions. With the Mekong River's water levels also rising sharply, downstream provinces are at heightened risk of widespread inundation.

Also, the Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI) and the ONWR just signed last month a five-year agreement to strengthen Mekong Region water governance. The Memorandum of Understanding includes tackling floods and drought risks.

Current Situation

Warning No. 10/2025 marks a significant escalation in Thailand’s seasonal flood preparedness. Heavy to very heavy rainfall is forecast to affect multiple provinces, with a high probability of flash flooding and landslides. As of this writing, vulnerable regions include the northern highlands, central plains, and northeastern areas adjacent to the Mekong River.

This situation mirrors broader global trends. In the United States, for example, flash floods have recently devastated parts of Texas, while similar rainfall events have disrupted daily life and agriculture across parts of South and Southeast Asia. These developments suggest that floods, once viewed as largely regional disasters, are now a shared global concern.

The ONWR has intensified coordination efforts with key governmental bodies. The Royal Irrigation Department is managing reservoir discharges and closely monitoring water retention systems, while the Department of Mineral Resources is identifying landslide-prone zones. At the local level, district officials have been instructed to update evacuation plans, establish emergency shelters, and ensure the availability of supplies such as food, clean water, and medicine.

Underlying Causes and Contributing Factors

A combination of meteorological, geographical, and human-induced factors has contributed to the rising flood risk. Climate change remains the primary driver, increasing the intensity and unpredictability of rainfall. Additionally, land development and deforestation have reduced the land’s natural ability to absorb water, exacerbating runoff and erosion. Urbanization without adequate drainage infrastructure further compounds the issue.

In the case of the Mekong River, upstream dam operations and rainfall variations across neighboring countries also influence water levels in Thailand. These transboundary factors underscore the need for international cooperation in water management and flood forecasting.

What Can Be Done?

While emergency response is crucial, the long-term solution lies in building resilience through sustainable water management, infrastructure investment, and climate adaptation. Thailand has made progress in developing early warning systems, but these must be complemented by:

• Community-based disaster preparedness: Local knowledge and quick mobilization can save lives during fast-moving events like flash floods.

• Reforestation and watershed management: Protecting and restoring forests can mitigate landslide risks and improve water absorption.

• Smart infrastructure: Upgrading irrigation canals, flood barriers, and urban drainage systems is essential to cope with intense rainfall.

• Education and communication: Ensuring that the public receives timely and clear information about risks and evacuation protocols.

Thailand’s current flood warning highlights an urgent need for both immediate vigilance and long-term strategic planning. As global climate patterns continue to evolve, floods are no longer a seasonal inconvenience—they are becoming chronic emergencies. National coordination, community involvement, and sustained investment in resilient systems will be key to protecting lives and livelihoods in the years ahead. The warning for July 6–12 should not only be seen as a temporary alert but also as a call to action.

For continuous updates, residents are encouraged to follow the ONWR and Meteorological Department’s official channels.

Despite its entrenched autocracy—first under longtime strongman Hun Sen and now his son, Prime Minister Hun Manet—Cambodia has quietly carved out a surprising success story in sustainable development. While its political system remains tightly controlled, the country has managed to make measurable progress on multiple fronts: cutting poverty, investing in green energy, and increasing its presence in global development diplomacy.

This progress has not gone unnoticed. Cambodia’s position in the UN’s Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) rankings has gradually improved, reflecting gains in economic growth, infrastructure, and alignment with the UN’s 2030 Agenda. The apparent contradiction of authoritarian governance and forward-facing development has raised eyebrows—but it’s also yielded real, if uneven, outcomes.

Fighting Poverty Through Growth

At the heart of Cambodia’s development agenda is poverty reduction. Between 2009 and 2022, the country's poverty rate dropped by nearly half—from 33.8% to 17.8%—according to World Bank data. Government investments in rural roads, electricity access, and health services have helped close the gap between urban and rural communities. Microfinance institutions have expanded rapidly, giving millions of Cambodians access to credit, though not without sparking concerns over debt burdens.

The pandemic posed a major setback, with a spike in job losses and economic insecurity. However, the government responded with targeted cash-transfer programs for the most vulnerable, as well as stimulus packages for small businesses and farmers. With tourism rebounding and garment exports recovering, Cambodia’s growth engine has started to hum again—albeit cautiously.

A Global Player in Sustainable Development

Cambodia has also stepped onto the world stage with a more assertive voice in sustainable development forums. It has ratified the Paris Climate Agreement and submitted updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), committing to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase renewable energy use. Hydropower and solar projects have become central to the country’s energy policy, even as critics point to ecological trade-offs.

Diplomatically, Cambodia has used its ASEAN chairmanship and its role in the UN General Assembly to champion development issues ranging from equitable vaccine distribution to climate justice. It has supported resolutions on South-South cooperation, debt relief for developing nations, and sustainable infrastructure, presenting itself as a partner in global problem-solving.

This growing engagement is also strategic. By aligning with global goals like the SDGs, Cambodia has strengthened ties with international donors and development banks, drawing in infrastructure funding and climate resilience support.

Trouble Beneath the Surface

Yet Cambodia’s development narrative remains complicated by its political environment. Critics say the government’s centralization of power—now under Hun Manet, after his father’s four-decade rule—stifles dissent, weakens institutions, and undermines SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions). The narrowing space for civil society and the press, alongside recurring corruption scandals, raises questions about long-term governance and transparency.

Environmental sustainability is another area of concern. While Cambodia has made strides in clean energy, it has also seen dramatic deforestation and river degradation, much of it linked to unchecked logging and large-scale land concessions. These trends threaten biodiversity and the livelihoods of rural communities, particularly in the Mekong Basin.

A Balancing Act

Cambodia’s path forward is far from simple. But what’s notable is its determination to engage with the global development agenda, even within the constraints of a tightly controlled political system. The government’s focus on infrastructure, education, and climate resilience—combined with diplomatic overtures—has helped it secure a firmer footing on the international stage.

Whether this momentum can be sustained depends on more than just GDP growth or global rankings. Cambodia’s challenge now lies in ensuring that development is truly inclusive, sustainable, and participatory. For a country long associated with fragility, its development gains are real—but the hard work of reform, accountability, and environmental protection remains unfinished.

In a special report for Mekong Dispatch, Dr. Nguyen Kim Anh — an ESG advisor and environmental remote sensing expert at the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology — explores how Vietnam is adopting ESG principles to drive the development of green industrial parks. She highlights the transformative role of AIoT, artificial intelligence, remote sensing, and integrated one-stop technologies in enabling real-time monitoring, optimizing operations, and advancing truly sustainable growth. The Editors.

In a landmark move for Vietnam’s industrial sector, Shinec, a leader in the field of of developing ecological industrial parks, officially launched its “Digital Green Economy” platform at Nam Cau Kien Eco-Industrial Park, aiming to set a new standard for sustainability and carbon management in industrial zones.

Developed in partnership with GGI Technology and TPIsoftware, the platform brings a suite of smart features to monitor and manage environmental performance, helping industrial operators meet international standards and gear up for global carbon market participation.

Digitizing the Green Transition

The platform integrates advanced digital tools designed to track and reduce environmental impact. Its flagship module, GreenSwift, enables businesses to calculate their carbon footprint using ISO 14064-1 standards, offering granular insights into emissions from energy use and other operational activities.

“Digitalization is no longer optional in achieving sustainability,” said Pham Hong Diep, Chairman of Shinec. “We see this as a vital investment to increase transparency, cut emissions, and move closer to our goal of carbon neutrality by 2030.”

Alongside GreenSwift, the platform includes ElectriSwift, a real-time energy monitoring tool that not only tracks consumption but also recommends efficiency improvements and evaluates rooftop solar potential.

Other features include wastewater quality monitoring, which assesses chemical indicators like pH, TSS, COD, BOD, and Ammonia before and after treatment. The system calculates associated greenhouse gas emissions, giving operators a full picture of their environmental footprint.

To ensure site safety and regulatory compliance, an AIoT-powered security system offers intelligent surveillance with alerts for fire, accidents, or intrusions — all managed via intuitive dashboards accessible from mobile devices.

More broadly, the adoption of digital tools like artificial intelligence is seen as a powerful accelerator of Vietnam’s green ambitions. By automating data collection, optimizing energy use, and predicting maintenance needs, AI enables more precise and efficient environmental management. This kind of smart automation not only helps companies reduce emissions and cut waste but also lays critical groundwork for compliance with tightening global regulations on carbon accountability and sustainability.

Building a Model Eco-Industrial Park

Shinec’s broader vision extends beyond data collection. At Nam Cau Kien, 31% of the park is already allocated to green spaces and renewable energy installations, with plans underway to digitally map and quantify carbon sequestration through landscape vegetation. This opens the door for verified participation in voluntary carbon credit markets.

“This platform brings us closer to achieving international certifications like ISO 50001 for energy management and ISO 14068 for carbon neutrality,” said Diep. “But more importantly, it aligns with our environmental and economic values — promoting responsible industry growth without compromising the planet.”

Aligned with National Priorities

Vietnam’s Resolution 57 underscores the critical role of science, technology, and innovation in shaping a resilient economy. Shinec’s new platform directly responds to this call by leveraging smart digital infrastructure to future-proof industrial development.

Incorporating AI, IoT, and sustainability metrics, the platform demonstrates how digital tools can support national climate objectives, such as the transition to a low-carbon economy and compliance with global regulations like the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM).

Scaling for Broader Impact

The launch at Nam Cau Kien is intended as a prototype, with Shinec planning to replicate the system across its wider network of industrial parks. The platform’s modular design means it can be tailored to different site needs, allowing for scalable deployment across various sectors.

As countries and companies face increasing pressure to account for and reduce carbon emissions, Shinec’s Digital Green Economy platform could offer a practical model — not only for Vietnam but also for other emerging economies seeking to combine economic growth with environmental stewardship.

“Vietnam’s industrial future must be sustainable, transparent, and tech-driven,” said Diep. “We believe this is the blueprint for that future.”

At the United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice on June 9, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet stood before the international community and announced his country’s signature on the High Seas Treaty. The move marked more than just a diplomatic milestone; it signaled Cambodia’s growing commitment to global environmental governance and positioned the country as an unlikely but important voice in the protection of marine biodiversity beyond its national waters.

The High Seas Treaty, officially known as the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) agreement, is a landmark international accord designed to regulate the vast expanse of ocean that lies outside any single country’s control—covering nearly half the planet’s surface. With the goal of conserving marine biodiversity and ensuring sustainable use of ocean resources, the treaty introduces tools such as marine protected areas, environmental impact assessments, and equitable sharing of marine genetic resources.

Cambodia’s signature carries symbolic and strategic weight. With a relatively short coastline of just over 440 kilometers along the Gulf of Thailand, the Kingdom is not a traditional maritime power. Yet its decision to back the treaty places it firmly within the ranks of responsible global actors taking a proactive stance on one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time: the health and governance of our oceans.

This is a calculated and commendable move.

For a country that is often associated more with its ancient temples than its marine ecosystems, Cambodia’s involvement in the High Seas Treaty sends a strong message that ocean conservation is not the exclusive domain of coastal giants. Rather, it is a shared responsibility—especially in an era when climate change, overfishing, plastic pollution, and deep-sea mining are threatening the very fabric of marine life. By becoming a signatory, Cambodia acknowledges that the effects of these threats are not confined by maritime borders, and that even smaller nations have a stake—and a role—in shaping the future of international waters.

Regionally, this decision has significant implications. Southeast Asia is home to some of the world’s most diverse marine ecosystems, yet it also grapples with mounting environmental pressures. Overfishing, habitat destruction, and marine pollution are pervasive across the region’s seas. While the High Seas Treaty does not govern the Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) of Southeast Asian states, Cambodia’s endorsement of the treaty reinforces the idea of collective action and regional leadership on environmental matters. It could encourage other ASEAN nations to intensify their engagement with global conservation efforts and foster more cooperation on transboundary marine issues.

Moreover, this step aligns closely with Cambodia’s national sustainability goals. In recent years, the government has begun to incorporate environmental considerations into its development strategies, albeit gradually. The country’s updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement include commitments to sustainable land and water management, as well as the protection of biodiversity. Signing the High Seas Treaty complements these pledges, suggesting an intent to align national policy with global sustainability frameworks.

It is also an opportunity for Cambodia to strengthen its international reputation. The Kingdom has often been scrutinized for environmental governance challenges, including illegal logging, unsustainable fishing practices, and lax enforcement of protected areas. By supporting a treaty that emphasizes transparency, science-based management, and equitable resource sharing, Cambodia is signaling its willingness to evolve into a more credible and responsible participant in global environmental diplomacy.

Of course, commitment on paper is only the beginning. Implementation will be the true test. The High Seas Treaty will require signatories to take concrete steps in areas such as data sharing, monitoring of marine activities, and enforcement of conservation zones. For Cambodia, this could mean investing in marine science, building institutional capacity, and collaborating with international partners to ensure compliance with treaty obligations. The country’s limited financial and technical resources present challenges, but they are not insurmountable, especially with support from the international community and regional mechanisms.

There are also significant opportunities here. By taking an active role in the treaty’s implementation, Cambodia can attract international funding and technical support for marine conservation. It can also deepen ties with organizations and countries leading the charge on ocean governance, positioning itself as a regional hub for sustainable maritime research and policy development. In the longer term, this can feed into broader economic goals, such as promoting sustainable fisheries, eco-tourism, and blue economy initiatives that benefit local communities and ecosystems alike.

The High Seas Treaty represents a turning point in global environmental diplomacy, offering the first international legal framework specifically designed to protect biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction. Cambodia’s decision to join this effort, while perhaps unexpected, should not be underestimated. It reflects a strategic understanding of the interconnected nature of environmental issues and the need for collective responsibility—regardless of a nation's size or maritime reach.

In a time when many developing nations are caught between urgent development needs and long-term sustainability goals, Cambodia’s signature on the treaty is an encouraging example of how environmental ambition and diplomatic engagement can go hand in hand. It shows that even countries with modest coastlines can make waves in global ocean stewardship.

If this commitment is followed through with genuine action, Cambodia has the potential not just to benefit from the treaty—but to help lead the way in its implementation.

James Borton is a non-resident senior fellow at the Johns Hopkins University Strategic Advanced International Studies Foreign Policy Institute and the author of Harvesting the Waves: How Blue Parks Shape Policy, Politics, and Peacebuilding in the South China Sea.

In the shadow of a war that once divided two nations, a new generation of leaders is walking a path paved by reconciliation and shared purpose. Dr. Le Thu Mach, lecturer at the Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Politics, joined fellow change makers on a journey across Vietnam as part of the McCain Global Leaders Program—an initiative honoring the late Senator John McCain, whose personal story and political courage helped transform U.S.-Vietnam relations from bitter enmity to enduring partnership. She shares her views with us below. Please do sign up for our free newsletter and share it with your friends.

This visit traced the footsteps of Senator John McCain’s enduring legacy of advocating for democracy, freedom, and human rights. The program is to equip these emerging leaders with the essential tools to become champions of democratic principles within their respective countries and regions.

Their itinerary spanned three big Vietnamese cities: Ho Chi Minh City, the bustling economic hub; Da Nang, a vibrant coastal city; and Hanoi, the nation’s capital.

In Hanoi, the fellows explored the sites intrinsically linked to Senator McCain's personal history. They paid their respects at the monument dedicated to him near Truc Bach Lake, the very spot where he landed after his plane was shot down in 1967. A visit to Hoa Lo Prison, where McCain was imprisoned for over five and a half years, offered a powerful reminder of his resilience. Numerous other locations across the city further illuminated the profound connection between Senator McCain and Vietnam.

A highlight of their visit occurred on May 20th at the U.S. Embassy in Hanoi, where the McCain Global Leaders participated in a roundtable discussion with young Vietnamese scholars. This intellectual exchange delved into the transformative role Senator John McCain played in the normalization of relations between the United States and Vietnam. The discussion revisited his harrowing capture during the Vietnam War, detailing how his plane was downed during a bombing run in 1967, his ejection, and subsequent rescue by locals from Truc Bach Lake. The profound impact of his imprisonment at Hoa Lo Prison was also thoroughly examined. Following the war, McCain's consistent visits to Vietnam and his unwavering advocacy for reconciliation were underscored as pivotal to the reconciliation between the two countries.

The timing of this visit and discussion was particularly resonant, as 2025 marks the 30th anniversary of the normalization of U.S.-Vietnam relations. What were once foes have now reached the highest level of diplomatic engagement, becoming comprehensive strategic partners. This milestone provided an opportune moment to reflect upon and re-evaluate the enduring legacy of Senator John McCain within the context of the current relationship between the two nations.

Beyond historical reconciliation, the roundtable also explored the critical influence of journalism and media in shaping country images. The discussion highlighted the immense importance of media for younger generations, who primarily learn about past through these channels. Vietnamese scholars shared their perspective on the frequent international media usage of the term “Vietnam War”, emphasizing that this terminology is inaccurate and detrimental to Vietnam’s national image. From the Vietnamese viewpoint, the conflict is termed “the defending war against America”, for differentiating it from other historical conflicts against France, Japan, China, and Mongolia, among others.

The local scholars stressed that modern Vietnam is safe and peaceful. Despite the indelible scars of war, with countless families having lost loved ones, the Vietnamese people are resolutely looking towards a new chapter, transforming the devastating memories of the wars into a powerful will to build a future of peace and prosperity.

The presence of leaders from various global conflict zones at the roundtable added another layer of significance. Some had recently transitioned from active operations like “Operation Sindoor” to the peace of Hanoi, while others had returned from the exciting 50^th anniversary parade commemorating Vietnam’s reunification.

The dialogue, imbued with mutual respect and a spirit of reconciliation, fostered a powerful sense of unity. This shared experience is poised to serve as a fundamental cornerstone, inspiring the McCain Global Leaders to cultivate peace and reconciliation within their own nations and regions upon their return home.

As climate change continues to pose escalating threats to Southeast Asia, Vietnam’s youth are stepping up with innovation and determination to keep pace with the demands and opportunities of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

From rising sea levels in the Mekong Delta to intensifying heat waves in urban centers like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, the challenges are both urgent and complex. But a new generation of student scientists is embracing cutting-edge technologies—artificial intelligence (AI), smart sensors, and advanced environmental monitoring systems—to build a more resilient future. Their efforts have gained renewed momentum with the launch of the 9th Annual International Student Science Forum (ISSF), which recently issued a call for papers to university and college students across the country. Here’s the link for more information.

This year’s ISSF highlights climate change adaptation as a key theme, signaling a growing recognition of the vital role young researchers play in shaping environmental policy and practice. Student-led projects are increasingly leveraging AI to predict climate-related risks, deploying smart sensors to gather real-time data on water levels, temperature, and pollution, and using machine learning to improve agricultural sustainability. These innovations reflect a broader cultural shift—Vietnam’s youth are not just concerned about climate change; they are actively building tools to fight it.

The forum’s call for papers encourages students to showcase how digital tools can drive environmental resilience, offering a platform for collaboration, cross-border learning, and practical application. As these young minds converge to share insights and breakthroughs, Vietnam is positioning itself as a hub of youth-led climate tech innovation in the region.

The International Student Science Forum (ISSF) is doing more than just inviting scientific papers—it’s catalyzing a movement. With its open call to university and college students across Vietnam, the forum is not only spotlighting how digital technologies like AI, smart sensors, and real-time environmental monitoring can enhance climate resilience but also serving as a launchpad for a broader wave of youth-led environmentalism. This year’s theme encourages students to explore how data-driven tools can solve hyper-local environmental issues while equipping them to scale those solutions regionally and globally.

The initiatives presented at ISSF may well chart the course for how a digitally empowered generation can adapt to—and help mitigate—the most pressing global issue of our time.

By offering a space for collaboration and cross-border exchange, the ISSF builds bridges between student innovators and research communities from around the world. It allows young Vietnamese scientists to share breakthroughs in tech-powered adaptation strategies and to learn from parallel efforts in other climate-vulnerable regions. The forum also emphasizes practical application, urging students not only to theorize solutions but to implement and test them in real-world settings—from sensor networks monitoring flood-prone areas to AI algorithms predicting drought conditions for farmers.

What emerges is not just a scientific symposium but a cultural signal. The ISSF reflects and accelerates a rising tide of youth environmentalism in Vietnam, fuelled by digital literacy, scientific curiosity, and an urgent sense of purpose. The student scientists of today are not merely responding to climate change—they’re reimagining how society understands and addresses it, one innovation at a time.

Dear Readers,

My apology for the delays in issuing our weekly commentary. However, I am pleased to announce that my latest book, Harvesting the Waves: How Blue Parks Shape Policy, Politics, and Peacebuilding in the South China Sea, will be available on May 15. As a result, I have started my book promotion, and this has derailed me from focusing on any unfolding Mekong storyline.

As governments tussle over sovereignty and maritime boundaries, some environmental advocates and policymakers are proposing an alternative conversation—one about shared stewardship. At the heart of this approach is “science diplomacy,” the concept that scientific cooperation across borders can build trust and open dialogue where traditional politics stall.

My book underscores the urgent call to establish marine protected areas. As fish stocks dwindle and marine ecosystems near collapse, marine protected areas (MPAs) are gaining unexpected traction—not just as conservation tools, but as instruments of diplomacy. Often referred to as “blue parks,” these sanctuaries are being championed by scientists, conservationists, and diplomats alike as a rare opportunity for collaboration in the increasingly tense South China Sea.

When thoughtfully designed and cooperatively managed, marine protected areas (MPAs) can do more than conserve ecosystems—they create rare diplomatic space for shared stewardship in one of the world’s most contested seas. Harvesting the Waves emphasizes the necessity of fostering international cooperation. The South China Sea like the Greater Mekong Subregion, is not merely a local issue but a global one, as its marine resources contribute significantly to global food security and economic stability.

Look for more information on my book, Harvesting the Waves on Amazon after May 15. Or contact Universal Publishers directly at young.jeff@universal-publishers.com.

Thank you.

James Borton

Last week, the annual Mekong Day unfurled in a swirl of celebration and ceremony in Vientiane, Lao PDR, marking the anniversary of the 1995 Mekong Agreement—a diplomatic milestone that brought Cambodia, Lao PDR, Thailand, and Vietnam together to form the Mekong River Commission (MRC). It was a day meant to reflect on decades of hard-won regional cooperation, applauding progress in managing the life-giving artery that is the Mekong River. From fishers to farmers, the river nourishes the livelihoods of over 60 million people, and this annual observance is usually an optimistic nod to unity, sustainability, and shared stewardship.

But this year, the festivities came with a bitter undertone. Dark clouds loomed—both figuratively and geopolitically—as China’s unrelenting upstream dam-building and its decision to bankroll Cambodia’s controversial $1.2 billion Funan Techo Canal raised serious concerns.

The proposed 94-mile canal connecting the Mekong River to the Gulf of Thailand has raised serious policy concerns over its potential to divert freshwater away from Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, a region vital to regional food security. Policymakers warn that the project could exacerbate existing challenges in the Delta, including saltwater intrusion and unstable river flow patterns, threatening agricultural productivity and livelihoods. Furthermore, MRC officials anxiously await for any details on the feasibility study report.

The move has sparked fears that China’s expanding footprint along the Mekong isn’t just engineering the river’s flow—it’s redrawing the balance of power in Southeast Asia’s most vital waterway. For many, Mekong Day was not just a celebration—it was a stark reminder of what’s at stake.

Although activists had hoped the 1995 Mekong Agreement would prevent dam construction on the river, the agreement was never designed to provide such authority. Additionally, China has refused to join the agreement, meaning its activities in Yunnan province, where the Mekong flows, remain unaffected and unrestricted by it.

Vietnam, which relies heavily on the Mekong Delta for rice production, fears that the canal could disrupt the river's natural flow, depriving the delta of essential nutrients and exacerbating issues like drought and salinity intrusion. Experts warn that the canal might act as a levee, redirecting water and creating a "dry zone" in southern Cambodia and Vietnam. The MRC has called for more detailed feasibility studies, but Cambodia has yet to provide comprehensive information. A Vietnamese analyst noted, "The canal could act like a dam, consequently resulting in the creation of a dry zone south of the canal and wet zones to its north." ​Reuters+1AP News+1AP NewsVietnam Briefing

The project's lack of transparency and potential displacement of thousands of Cambodians have further fueled tensions. Local communities along the canal's proposed route report insufficient information and inadequate compensation plans. One resident expressed anxiety over the project's progress, stating, "There is no information, and it is getting closer to when construction will start." While Cambodia asserts that the canal aligns with the 1995 Mekong Agreement, the MRC cautions that full compliance depends on its interaction with the Mekong mainstream.

As the Mekong Day celebrations concluded, the region was left grappling with the complex balance between development ambitions and environmental stewardship. The coming months will be critical in determining whether the Mekong's future will be shaped by cooperation or contention.

Thank you again for continuing to read and subscribe to our free e-newsletter. Last month I was reporting from the Mekong Delta. The Trump administration's tariffs are significantly impacting exports from Vietnam's Mekong Delta, particularly in sectors like agriculture, electronics, and textiles. A little less than two weeks ago, the U.S. imposed a 46% tariff on Vietnamese goods, leading to operational disruptions among manufacturers in the region. Some companies have reduced production shifts or halted operations due to cancelled or delayed orders, while others have temporarily increased output to offset potential losses.

The Mekong Delta, known for its agricultural exports such as rice, seafood, and fruits, faces challenges as U.S. tariffs make these products less competitive in the American market. However, the Vietnamese, who are nothing less than resilient and strategic are mounting a diplomatic offensive.

Here’s the link for an article I wrote for Responsible Statecraft on this issue. It’s entitled, “Vietnam’s fortunes actually take a dramatic turn, and not for the worse.”

Dear Readers,

We were granted permission to repost Shobha Shetty’s blog. She is the Global Director, Agriculture and Food Global Practice at the World Bank. Shetty and the World Bank are committed to helping farmers in the Mekong Delta because the region is a vital agricultural hub, producing more than half of Vietnam's rice and a significant portion of its seafood exports.

However, these paddy fields, once viewed as the “rice basket” of Vietnam face growing threats from climate change, including rising sea levels, saltwater intrusion, and unpredictable rainfall, which put farmers' livelihoods at risk. By supporting sustainable farming practices, improved water management, and climate-resilient infrastructure, the World Bank aims to safeguard food security, promote economic stability, and enhance the resilience of rural communities.

The World Bank’s involvement reflects a broader mission to reduce poverty and promote shared prosperity in vulnerable regions. Shetty’s views offer support for the "1MHP" in the Mekong Delta and it refers refers to the Vietnamese government's "One Million Hectares of High-quality, Low-Emission Rice" project, aimed at developing a million hectares of rice farms that produce high-quality rice with minimal greenhouse gas emissions. This initiative aims to improve the rice industry, increase farmer incomes, protect the environment, and contribute to Vietnam's net-zero emissions target by 2050.

Here’s Shobha’s views on the vulnerable region. The editors

I visited the famed “rice bowl” of Vietnam in the Mekong Delta, where the World Bank is preparing a new program to support the government’s ambitious plan to scale up the success of the earlier VnSAT project.

Announced by the Prime Minister at COP28 in Dubai in December 2023, the new program aims to revolutionize the Delta’s rice sector across one million hectares of land by 2030, through the development of high-quality, low-carbon rice value chains. Known as 1MHP, the initiative builds on all the lessons learned from VnSAT.

I was struck by a couple of things:

The smallholder rice farmers we met are organized into cooperatives, representing 101 households across 148 hectares. This has enabled investment in large-scale mechanization and the adoption of alternate wetting and drying, which in turn reduces emissions. Combined with improved rice varieties with stronger roots and just two rounds of deep fertilizer placement, these practices have lowered input costs for farmers.

We were also impressed by the rice-based circular economy that we saw in action. Not only is the 1MHP initiative set to boost farmers’ rice incomes by over 43%, but many are also diversifying and doubling their revenues, bringing mushrooms to market; and they’re producing, using and selling organic fertilizer composed of mushroom residue, a great alternative to the kinds of fertilizers you can find on the market.

The new program is expected to mobilize up to $40 million in results-based carbon financing for emissions reductions through the Transformative Carbon Asset Facility (TCAF). I also saw some high-end equipment being piloted to measure soil moisture and methane emissions. However, at $10k a pop, this is quite expensive. Establishing robust, cost-effective monitoring, reporting, and verification (MRV) systems will be key to accessing international carbon markets, improving the branding of Vietnam’s low-carbon rice, and enabling traceability.

1MHP will directly contribute to achieving the government’s commitment to reach net-zero emissions by 2050 and fulfilling the COP27 pledge to reduce methane emissions by 30 percent by 2030. It’s great to see IFC is also exploring investments to strengthen local agribusiness participation. This will be crucial for sustaining commercial low-carbon rice production over the long term.

My sincerest thanks go to Vice Minister Tran Thanh Nam of the Agriculture and Environment Ministry, our Practice Manager for East Asia and the Pacific, Paavo Eliste and the World Bank's Agriculture and Food team in Vietnam.

Southeast Asia's second-largest unspoiled rainforest, spanning 800,000 hectares of dense monsoon and mangrove forests brimming with life, is found in the Cardamom Mountains in southern Cambodia. This ecological treasure-trove shelters at least 60 known endangered species, from elusive Asian elephants to Siamese crocodiles, sun bears and pangolins. Yet, despite its irreplaceable biodiversity, the Cambodia government has greenlit the construction of three massive irrigation dams, citing the need for greater agricultural output and water security. These dams, according to officials, will stabilise food supplies, increase crop yields, and irrigate farmlands. But at what cost to one of the region's last great rainforests?

Authorities see the dams as a way to mitigate the effects of unpredictable rainfall and climate change, ensuring that farmers have a reliable water source year-round. While the economic and agricultural benefits are emphasized, the decision has sparked concerns among environmentalists and conservation groups.

The responsibility for safeguarding this vital ecosystem rests largely on grassroots community groups and environmental associations. These dedicated groups work tirelessly to combat illegal land grabs, deforestation, and wildlife poaching—threats that have long endangered the forest’s rich natural resources.

Meanwhile, the construction of these dams will have significant consequences for the Cardamom Mountains’ forests, which are home to diverse ecosystems and endangered species. Gerald Flynn, a reporter for Mongabay, in an explanatory article successfully lays out the details of the Cambodian government’s systematic “war against the forest.”

Large swaths of forest will be cleared for dam infrastructure, reservoirs, and roadways, leading to habitat destruction and loss of biodiversity. Dams also disrupt natural water flows, altering river ecosystems and affecting fish populations that local communities rely on for sustenance. The destruction of forests and water systems exacerbates climate change, as trees that absorb carbon dioxide are lost, and the natural balance of the environment is disturbed.

Furthermore, the approval of these dams reflects a broader trend in Cambodia where conservation and sustainability efforts are often deprioritized in favor of development projects. Despite international pressure to protect its forests, the government continues to approve projects that lead to deforestation and environmental degradation. The lack of strict enforcement of environmental regulations further accelerates the damage as companies and developers clear land without significant oversight. If such trends persist, Cambodia risks losing vital natural resources, threatening both its environmental stability and the livelihoods of communities dependent on these ecosystems.

Attention must be paid not only to the distinctive calls of the Cambodia Laughingthrush, the Tailorbirds, and the Giant Ibis echoing through the dense forests of the Cardamom National Park but also to the vital work being done by non-governmental organizations (NGOs), which continue to play an indispensible role in combating deforestation and advocating for stronger environmental protections in the region.

NGOs like the World Wildlife Fund and Conservation International are at the forefront of conservation efforts, working tirelessly to protect the biodiversity of the park and surrounding areas. They engage in a variety of initiatives, including large-scale reforestation projects aimed at restoring degraded land as well as community-based programs that empower local populations to become stewards of their natural environment and preserve the country’s forests. Through these combined efforts, they not only protect vital ecosystems but also promote sustainable livelihoods for communities, ensuring long-term conservation success for both nature and people.

These organisations assist in ensuring the adoption of sustainable practices, offering long-term solutions to the problems facing Cambodia's forests and wildlife, by working with local communities, governments, and other stakeholders.

Sony Oum, Country Director of Conservation International Cambodia, reflected on the benefits offered by the region. “It has engaged and enhanced stakeholders’ understanding of the invaluable ecological services provided by the Central Cardamom Mountains Landscape, including robust biodiversity support, climate change mitigation, freshwater provision, and sustainable livelihood.”

Many NGOs work closely with local communities to promote sustainable livelihoods that do not depend on deforestation, such as eco-tourism, sustainable agriculture, and forest management programs. Additionally, NGOs conduct research and gather data on deforestation rates, illegal logging, and the environmental impact of infrastructure projects, providing evidence to challenge harmful development plans.

Although economic development is frequently given precedence over conservation by the Cambodian government, NGOs' persistent efforts have resulted in some policy improvements. In 2025, these organizations continue to lobby for stricter environmental regulations, better enforcement of existing laws, and greater transparency in land concessions granted to private companies. They also collaborate with international bodies and donors to put pressure on the Cambodian government to uphold its commitments to forest conservation. However, their influence is often limited by political constraints, and the government sometimes views environmental activism as a challenge to its authority, leading to restrictions on NGO operations.

Despite these challenges, Cambodian NGOs remain a key force in environmental protection. By raising awareness among the public, engaging in legal battles, and forming alliances with global conservation networks, they help slow the pace of deforestation. Their impact on policy development depends largely on political will, international scrutiny, and the ability of civil society to push for change.

If their advocacy efforts gain more support from global NGOs and local communities, they may be able to secure stronger environmental protections and ensure that development projects consider long-term sustainability. Let me know your views. Thank you.

Can Tho, located in the heart of Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, is a prime destination for eco-tourism, offering visitors a chance to experience the region’s lush landscapes, winding waterways, and vibrant floating markets.

The city is known for its rich biodiversity, with vast rice paddies, tropical fruit orchards, and extensive mangrove forests. As a journalist and also co-founder of the Mekong Environment Forum, an NGO focused on helping mitigate climate change challenges, I have witnessed how eco-tourism activities in Can Tho, that often include boat tours through the labyrinth of canals, visits to local farms where travelers can sample fresh produce, and explorations of conservation areas like Lung Ngoc Hoang Nature Reserve bolsters a sustainable tourism model. This reserve also contributes to maintaining the ecological balance, increases coverage, and ensures environmental security.

These experiences allow visitors to engage with the region’s natural beauty while supporting sustainable tourism initiatives that preserve the delicate Mekong ecosystem. This is comprised of a dynamic network of rivers, wetlands, and mangroves that supports rich biodiversity but is highly vulnerable to climate change, saltwater intrusion, and land subsidence.

What makes Can Tho particularly unique is its cultural and ecological harmony, where traditional river life blends seamlessly with diverse wildlife. The region's iconic Cai Rang Floating Market offers a glimpse into the daily lives of locals who rely on the waterways for trade and transport. Additionally, eco-lodges and resorts, such as the Victoria Can Tho Resort provide serene accommodations that embrace the surrounding nature while promoting responsible tourism. Situated on the banks of the Hau River, one of the nine estuaries of the Mekong Delta, the colonial-inspired property offers eco-friendly activities such as cycling through rural villages, bird watching in the wetlands, and learning about local conservation efforts.

“Our people are the core of the experience here at our resort,” claims the ebullient Mrs. Vo Xuan Thu, the general manager at the Victoria Resort. She understands the history of the hotel and the unique blending of local culture.

The hotel's design reflects colonial-era elegance, featuring intricate balconies, shuttered windows, and grand facades. This blend of French and Vietnamese aesthetics creates a charming and nostalgic atmosphere for visitors.

At the resort, local artists masterfully paint and showcase their talent on a typical Saturday evening, adding an artistic touch to the guest experience. Mrs. Thu, who began her career on the front desk of the elegant hotel property, is proud to also exclaim that the resort is the designated diplomatic hotel in the area.

Certainly, Vietnam’s delta offers a special form of nature tourism and reinforces indigenous cultural values, seen in a vast array of ecological diversity, including 3 biosphere reserves, 5 national parks, 3 nature reserves, 3 species conservation areas, and even a scientific experimental research forest. In recent years, the entire Mekong Delta, which includes Can Tho, welcomed over 52 million visitors in 2024. This marks nearly a 16% increase compared to 2023. These numbers have led to impressive achievements in ecotourism developments.

More importantly, eco-tourism does play a crucial role in mitigating climate change in the Mekong Delta, including Can Tho, by promoting sustainable practices that protect the environment while supporting local communities. Many eco-tourism initiatives include mangrove restoration, which act as carbon sinks by absorbing CO₂ and protecting coastal erosion.

Also, the wetlands and floodplains are critical for biodiversity and act as natural flood buffers. In truth, responsible tourism helps fund conservation projects. In addition, by supporting eco-friendly fish farms and traditional fishing techniques, eco-tourism reduces overfishing and minimizes damage to aquatic ecosystems.

With its combination of natural splendor, rich cultural heritage, and sustainable travel opportunities, Can Tho’s eco-tourism scene is perfect for travellers looking to experience the Mekong Delta's natural beauty while supporting local conservation and sustainability efforts.

Eco resorts like the Victoria in Cần Thơ, Vietnam, play a vital role in educating visitors about sustainability in the Mekong Delta, a region highly vulnerable to climate change. By incorporating eco-friendly practices such as solar energy, water conservation, and locally sourced materials, this resort demonstrates sustainable living in action. Guided eco-tours and cultural activities also succeed in highlighting the importance of preserving the delta’s fragile ecosystem. Through these initiatives, visitors gain a deeper understanding of the environmental challenges facing the region and the need for sustainable tourism and conservation efforts.

Finally, this form of community-based tourism ensures that local people benefit directly from tourism, providing them with income to invest in climate adaptation measures like flood-resistant housing.

The 5th Annual Mekong Dialogue, held last week in Chiang Rai, Thailand, and co-hosted by Mae Fah Luang University and IDE-JETRO, united a diverse array of stakeholders to tackle the growing challenges coursing through the Mekong River.

As panelists, we delved into the repercussions of the abrupt suspension of USAID operations in the Mekong region, a consequence of the draconian budget cuts imposed by the Trump 2.0 administration. These cuts have severely curtailed funding for vital development initiatives, jeopardizing critical infrastructure projects, environmental conservation efforts, and programs designed to foster economic resilience. The absence of sustained international engagement threatens to leave the region increasingly vulnerable—exposing it to unchecked environmental degradation, economic volatility, and the growing influence of dominant regional powers eager to fill the void.

To safeguard the Mekong’s long-term stability and sustainability, the urgent need for greater internationalization cannot be overstated. A more diversified and robust network of investment, expertise, and diplomatic engagement—drawing in contributions from the European Union, Japan, Australia, and key multilateral organizations—can serve as a counterbalance to the vacuum left by USAID’s retreat. By broadening the spectrum of global partnerships, the Mekong region can chart a more balanced, resilient, and inclusive path forward, ensuring that development is both sustainable and equitably distributed.

Achieving this internationalization requires a multi-pronged approach. First, regional governments must actively seek diversified partnerships through trade agreements, investment incentives, and development cooperation frameworks. Second, international institutions such as the Asian Development Bank and UN agencies can play a more prominent role in funding infrastructure and social programs. Third, private sector engagement, particularly through responsible investment in sectors like clean energy and sustainable agriculture, can promote long-term economic resilience. Finally, stronger people-to-people ties through academic exchanges, civil society partnerships, and capacity-building initiatives will help sustain international cooperation beyond government-led efforts. By implementing these strategies, the Mekong region can maintain its development momentum despite the loss of USAID support.

Internationalization can further support these efforts by facilitating cross-border collaborations between citizen scientists, researchers, and policymakers across the Mekong basin. International NGOs, academic institutions, and regional partnerships can provide funding, training, and digital platforms to enhance the credibility and impact of grassroots environmental monitoring. By strengthening civil society engagement, the Mekong region can build a more decentralized and community-driven approach to addressing climate change, ensuring that adaptation efforts are not solely dependent on government programs or foreign aid.

A critical element of this transition is empowering grassroots efforts through civil society programs such as citizen science workshops. These initiatives provide local communities with the tools and knowledge to collect environmental data, monitor changes in their ecosystems, and advocate for policy solutions that directly impact their livelihoods. Given the Mekong region’s vulnerability to climate change—manifesting in rising temperatures, erratic monsoons, and worsening droughts—mobilizing local citizens to document these changes can inform better decision-making at both national and international levels. Citizen science programs help bridge the gap between scientific research and everyday experiences, ensuring that local perspectives are integrated into climate adaptation strategies.

Furthermore, these grassroots initiatives enhance community resilience by fostering a sense of ownership and collective responsibility over natural resources. When local populations actively participate in tracking deforestation, water quality, or biodiversity loss, they become more invested in conservation efforts and are more likely to push for sustainable practices in industries such as agriculture and fisheries. By equipping communities with scientific literacy and data-driven insights, citizen science workshops also empower them to challenge unsustainable policies and demand greater accountability from local and national governments.

Even China’s civil society network had a seat at the table at the Mekong Dialogue, represented by Chen Taiyong, the executive director of the Sichuan Haiku Poverty Alleviation Center in Chengdu. As the leader of a nationwide civil society network in China, Chen’s presence underscored the growing role of grassroots organizations in tackling development challenges beyond national borders. His network’s work in poverty alleviation, community-driven initiatives, and sustainable development offers a compelling model for regional collaboration.

Perhaps this is precisely what the Greater Mekong region needs to mitigate the funding shortfalls left in the wake of USAID’s withdrawal. A more dynamic, cross-border civil society movement—one that leverages local expertise, fosters people-to-people connections, and mobilizes resources from both public and private sectors—could provide a crucial buffer against the growing financial and political vacuum. By strengthening regional civil society networks, the Mekong can cultivate a more resilient and self-sustaining development framework, less reliant on any single foreign donor and more attuned to the needs of its own people. Let me know your views.

By: Tom Fawthrop. Originally published on The Diplomat on February 14, 2025.

In Chiang Khan, a picturesque Thai tourist town bordering the Mekong River, the new year brought dark forebodings of a hydropower project slated to be installed just 2 kilometers away in neighboring Laos.

Thanusilp Inda, the head of Ban Klang village in Chiang Khan, expressed his anxiety over the future. “The Sanakham dam will be a disaster for ecology and fish, it will cause worse flooding,” he told the Diplomat.

Just before Christmas, the Thai government’s Office of the National Water Resources (ONWR) under the Office of the Prime Minister announced that the Mekong River Commission consultation process would suddenly go ahead, despite warnings from The Thai Human Rights Commission (THRC) to exercise caution.

In a letter sent to Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra in November 2024, the THRC advised against any hasty action until a thorough assessment was completed of the transboundary impacts on Thai people and their livelihoods.

The report cited a wide range of impacts, including flooding and erosion of riverbanks, that will damage two important tourist sites in Thailand: Kaeng Khut Khu in Chiang Khan District and Phan Khot Saen in Nong Khai Province.

The 684 MW Sanakham hydroelectric dam project across the Mekong River, close to the Thai-Lao border in Chiang Khan District, Loei Province, will cost an estimated $2.07 billion. The dam, if completed, will directly impact three of the eight provinces of Thailand that border the Mekong.

It is listed by the Mekong River Commission as the sixth hydropower dam on the lower Mekong proposed by the Lao government. Two out of the six projects in the pipeline are now operating, and a third, the Luang Prabang Dam, is under construction.

The debt-ridden government of Laos claims that their dam-building spree will boost their economy by positioning Laos as the so-called “battery of the region,” selling electricity to neighboring countries.

However, Mekong scientists and fishery experts say the dams will choke the natural free-flowing currents of the river, undermining its rich biodiversity.

Thailand plays a pivotal role in funding and supporting nearly all these lower Mekong mainstream dams. (Separately, China has completed 12 dams on the Lancang, aka the upper Mekong.)

Gulf Energy is the major Thai investor in the Sanakham and the Pak Beng dams on the lower Mekong, in a joint venture partnership with Chinese partner, Datang Investment Overseas.

Civil Society Fights for a Voice

On January 21, the Thai government held the third round of the dam consultation under the Mekong River Commission’s Prior Consultation mechanism. In the Sunai Hotel in Ubon Ratchachani, conservation-minded NGOs and civil society clashed with the Thai government’s commercial interests in exploiting the Mekong River’s water resources.

Ubon Flood Watch and Mekong River Network groups booked a room in the same hotel, hoping to stage a parallel alternative forum. Thai government officials were not happy about the competition, and proceeded to order the hotel management to cancel the booking of the parallel Sanakham dam forum.

Professor Kanokwan Manorom, the director of the Greater Mekong Subregion Social Research Center at Ubon Ratchathani University, attended the ONWR forum. She observed there was a lack of concrete data and an attempt to present the impacts on Thai people as only superficial.

As Manorom told Transborder News, “The Sanakham Dam will cause severe impacts on hydrology, ecology, society, economy, culture, and livelihoods.” In addition, she noted that “68 villages in Loei Province and 47 villages in Nong Khai Province, with a population of 70,000, will be the worst affected, as they lie within a 15-kilometer radius of the project. But this was not made clear and transparent by the ONWR forum.”

Neither the ONWR nor Gulf Energy responded to a request for comment from The Diplomat.

After the cancellation of the parallel civil society forum, about 200 activists from Ubon Ratchachani province held a peaceful protest inside the hotel, wearing green shirts and carrying placards with messages like “Stop the Mekong River Dam,” and “Stop the Fake Consultation.”

Brian Eyler an expert on transboundary issues in the Mekong region at the U.S.-based Stimson Foundation, told The Diplomat, “In this case, not enough time was given to local people, and I fear this looks like a rush job that will have negative unintended consequences. So it behooves the Thai ONWR to execute a more well thought-out consultation process.”

The fourth and final ONWR forum is scheduled for Bueng Kan on February 14. This will pave the way for Mekong River Commission Regional Stakeholder Forums. However, NGOs complain that all of these forums limit debate and do not permit questions about why this dam is needed, who benefits, and whether the project should be canceled.

The Legacy of the Xayaburi Dam

Many opponents of the new dam point to the damage already caused by the Xayaburi dam in Laos since operations started in 2019. It lies about 200 km upstream of the Lao-Thai border at Chiang Khan.

The leader of the Chiang Khan Fishermen’s Group, Prayoon Saen-ae, told The Diplomat, “After the Xayaburi opened its gates [in 2019], we suffered huge impacts. The erratic ups and downs of the water, the fluctuations created confusion for the fish.”

Channarong Wongla, a leader of the Rak Chiang Khan (“Love Chiang Khan”) Conservation Group, recalled, “We used to have more than 100 species of fish. Now it is reduced to 20 species in the last six years.”

The 1,285 MW Xayaburi Dam was the first to be built on the lower Mekong, at a cost of $4.5 billion. It was funded by the four biggest Thai banks, and 95 percent of the electricity has been exported to Thailand since operations began in 2019.

Channarong urged the ONWR-organized forum in Chiang Khan: “We must have a full accounting of the impacts of the Xayaburi dam on Thai people and their way of life first, before we consider a new dam.” He did not receive any answer.

Neither the Thai National Mekong Committee (TNMC) nor the ONWR has ever called for an independent review of the damage done by the Xayaburi Dam.

However, we do know that the backwater impact caused so much bank erosion around the World Heritage site of Luang Prabang that it necessitated a World Bank-funded restoration project, at the request of UNESCO.

Can Thailand’s Impoverished Thwart the Plan of Bangkok’s Energy Elite?

In response to their critics, the Thai government and the dam developers have defended investment in Mekong dams as part of a low carbon policy providing a “green and clean” alternatives to fossil fuels.

Thailand’s National Energy Plan (NEP), a blueprint for the country’s energy strategy from 2023-2037, declares its main goal is to increase the use of clean, renewable energy and an expansion of solar energy and wind power.

But in spite of increasing solar power, Thailand will still buy many more kilowatts from Mekong dams as a major component of the country’s energy mix.

However the Thai government’s defense of hydropower as a source of “clean renewable energy” is challenged by U.N. climate change research that revealed large dams cause equally harmful methane gases. At COP29, the U.N. climate change conference in 2024, 159 countries signed up to the Global Methane Pledge. Thailand and Laos declined to join them.

Thailand’s energy policy decisions – including its backing of hydropower projects in Laos – are made by a small group of government ministers, wealthy private investors, and energy technocrats.

The Nikkei Asia Review profile of Gulf Energy’s CEO Sarath Ratanavadi depicted this corporate high-flyer as Thailand’s “energy king.” He has a net worth of $14.4 billion, according to Forbes. His company is a major investor in both the Sanakham and Pak Beng Dams.

What chance do Thailand’s poor fisherfolk and low-income citizens have to influence decision-making on a dam that could damage their crops, reduce their fish catch, and erode their livelihoods?

Eyler, author of “The Last Days of the Mighty Mekong,” acknowledges the fight over Sanakham Dam is a very unequal contest. “This indeed is a David versus Goliath story, but we all know how this story entails bravery, defiance, and strength of the underdog. Fair fight or not, it’s a fight worth standing up for.”

He added, “There can be no unified Thai [national] interest in this dam or any dam, where there are divergent and conflicting interests.”

Gulf’s website points to a possible solution to avoid confrontation. Thailand‘s largest energy supplier proclaims that “Gulf is a leader in the solar energy business.” The company directly holds equity in solar and wind farms in Vietnam, with a total capacity of 245.8 MW. They also hold a 50 percent stake in a solar project in Borkum Riftgrund, Germany with a capacity of 464.8 MW.

Why not replace plans for Mekong dam projects with much safer and more cost-effective solar energy and wind power? These energy sources are already operational in Thailand, with a total capacity of 600 kilowatts so far. That just happens to be incredibly close to the 684 KW expected from the generation of the Sanakham Dam, but without all the risks and conflict that accompany hydropower.

Emeritus Professor of Human Geography Dr Philip Hirsch has concluded after 40 years of Mekong research that “big dams are obsolete. There are so many options for cheaper alternative energy. There is no reason to build a dam on the Mekong or any river these days.”

But Premrudee Daoroung, the coordinator of Project Sevana Mekong’s Culture and Environment, is not optimistic that rational arguments and analysis will win the day. As she sees it, “There is more than enough science and wisdom that proves the serious damage from these transboundary impacts, but not enough political will to apply the science to stop the dams.”

Hello, Mekong Dispatch subscribers and new readers. We are pleased to introduce Truc Mai Nguyen, our newest contributor to the newsletter. She is a dedicated member of the Youth Policy Working Group under UNDP Vietnam. She is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in International Relations at the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam, focusing on Southeast Asia Studies and sustainability issues. Here are her views. Thank you for reading. The editors.

Trump’s approach to Southeast Asia is likely to be marked by apathy and indifference. While diplomatic and military engagement with the region may continue (as long as the region serves the U.S. a strategic position against China), economic cooperation is unlikely to be a priority. Regarding multilateralism, U.S. participation in ASEAN-led regional frameworks is expected to decline even further. A second Trump administration is unlikely to favor multilateralism in general, and Southeast Asia will be no exception.

Does this signal the end of U.S.-Mekong relations, especially in light of Trump's recent USAID cuts that have disrupted development initiatives in the region? While a second Trump administration may reduce engagement with Southeast Asia, this does not necessarily mean a weakening of ties with the Mekong subregion.

First, it was during Trump’s first term that the U.S. government established many of its current Mekong initiatives. Historically, the Lower Mekong had not always been a key focus of U.S. foreign policy. Its strategic importance emerged more recently as part of a broader counter-China strategy. The region first gained momentum under Obama’s “Pivot to Asia” strategy, leading to the establishment of the Lower Mekong Initiative (LMI) in 2009, in partnership with Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam. LMI focused on six pillars: Agriculture and Food Security, Connectivity, Education, Energy Security, Environment and Water, and Health, Gender, and other cross-cutting issues. Activities under this initiative included technical assistance, capacity-building, and empowering marginalized communities.

Under Trump’s 2016–2020 term, interest in the region increased as U.S.-China competition escalated. U.S. diplomats became more vocal in criticizing China’s upstream Mekong policies, which threatened water security for downstream countries. Notably, Trump upgraded LMI to the Mekong-U.S. Partnership (MUSP), emphasizing economic connectivity and water security alongside other non-traditional security issues. This period saw water issues being highly politicized to challenge China’s influence, positioning the U.S. as a key partner for Mekong countries. The Biden administration maintained this engagement under the “Free and Open Mekong” concept, aligning with his broader Indo-Pacific strategy.

Second, the Mekong region holds strategic interests that will likely capture Trump’s attention—namely, U.S.-China competition. Given that China will remain a central concern in Trump’s foreign policy, the Mekong region is expected to retain its relevance, even if it is not among the administration’s top priorities. While the U.S. will likely maintain its interest in the Mekong region, its approach may shift significantly.

First, Trump may pivot from a bottom-up to a top-down strategy. U.S. engagement in the Lower Mekong has traditionally relied on civil society and NGOs, while government-level interactions are limited to ministerial meetings. However, given Trump’s USAID cuts, development organizations’ role within MUSP may be disrupted. Community-level initiatives led by civil society organizations would receive less priority. A top-down approach, emphasizing direct high-level dialogues, might be favored as it aligns more closely with China’s high-level engagement with the region, and potentially increases U.S. influence over Mekong countries.

Second, economic connectivity will not be a focus. Trump’s "America First" policy prioritizes correcting trade imbalances, meaning economic engagement with the Mekong region could be hampered by tariffs and other trade restrictions. As a result, the Connectivity pillar of MUSP is unlikely to receive significant attention.

Third, lacking emphasis on grassroots engagement and economic ties, Trump may opt for a more confrontational stance against China, particularly through diplomacy. His administration is expected to continue politicizing and securitizing Mekong issues, especially water security. Rhetorically, the U.S. could adopt a harsher tone toward China, as reflected in key Trump cabinet appointments. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz - both known for their tough stance on China - are expected to shape a hardline foreign policy. At the same time, the U.S. will work to internationalize Mekong affairs, countering China’s efforts to keep the issues regional.

Although the outlook for Trump-Southeast Asia relations seems bleak, I remain optimistic about continued U.S.-Mekong engagement. While mutual social initiatives and economic trade may not see positive developments, I anticipate more dialogues and a tougher U.S. stance against China on regional security issues.

Author: Truc Mai Nguyen

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Hello to all new readers to the Mekong Dispatch. Our team of experienced editors curates and highlights on a monthly basis environmental articles about the Mekong region. On a weekly level, I offer my views on a timely topic related to the Mekong.

The Trump administration’s draconian move to shutter USAID operations presents a major setback on non-government organizations (NGOs) operating in Southeast Asia, particularly in vulnerable nations like Laos, Myanmar, and Cambodia. While Democrats are wringing their hands over these actions and promising legal challenges, let’s not forget the pain for citizens in the region. These specific countries rely heavily on international assistance to address pressing issues such as poverty, public health, education, and human rights. USAID has been a crucial partner in providing financial resources, technical expertise, and logistical support to NGOs working in these areas. Without this funding, many critical programs may be scaled back or completely shut down, leaving marginalized communities without essential services.

In Laos, where infrastructure and healthcare systems are still developing, USAID-funded programs have played a significant role in combating malnutrition, improving maternal and child health, and supporting economic development. The loss of funding will likely hinder progress in these areas, disproportionately affecting rural and indigenous populations.

Myanmar faces an even dire situation, given its ongoing political and humanitarian crisis. USAID has funded groups that advance democracy and human rights, helped displaced communities, and given humanitarian aid. With the military regime tightening its grip on power and restricting international aid, the withdrawal of USAID support may further isolate pro-democracy movements and leave conflict-affected populations without critical assistance. NGOs, already operating under severe constraints, will struggle to fill the gap left by USAID, potentially exacerbating instability in the region.

Overall, the gutting of USAID funding reduces the capacity of NGOs to provide life-saving aid and long-term development solutions. It also weakens international efforts to promote stability, governance, and economic growth in some of the most fragile countries in Southeast Asia. A recently published Wired article addresses how the collapse of USAID funding fuels human trafficking and slavery at scammer compounds in Southeast Asia. The ripple effects of this setback could be felt for years to come, potentially reversing progress made in poverty alleviation, health, and human rights.

Friends in Cambodia, who have been on the frontlines for years and who have relied on USAID for democratic governance support, human rights advocacy, and public health programs—especially in the fight against HIV/AIDS and child malnutrition—risk losing critical progress in these areas. For example, Kimhong Heng, president of the Cambodia Youth Network admits that the erosion of USAID funding has setback their campaigns for promoting youth engagement in democracy, human rights, and the dialogue engagement for inclusive policy development. In Cambodia, USAID has been instrumental in advancing democratic governance, human rights, and public health initiatives, particularly in the fight against HIV/AIDS and child malnutrition. A funding shortfall will lead to increased vulnerability among at-risk populations and weaken civil society organizations advocating for social and political reforms.

This is the time when young volunteers like those in Cambodia, are needed to empower local farmers and fishers to tackle climate change by providing training workshops on sustainable practices, resource management, and climate resilience, while also addressing issues like food security, economic stability, and environmental conservation.

The dismantling of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has significantly impacted the Stimson Center's initiatives in the Mekong region. The Stimson Center has been a key partner in the USAID Mekong Safeguards Program, which aims to promote sustainable infrastructure development by integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards. This collaboration has supported projects like the Mekong Infrastructure Tracker, providing comprehensive data on infrastructure developments in the region.

The closure of USAID operations in Southeast Asia will also significantly hinder demining efforts in Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam, where unexploded ordnance (UXO) from past conflicts continues to maim and kill civilians. USAID has been a crucial source of funding, technical support, and coordination for clearance programs, providing resources for explosive ordnance disposal teams, victim assistance, and community education on UXO risks. Without this support, local governments and NGOs will struggle to maintain current demining progress, potentially leading to slower clearance rates, increased casualties, and prolonged economic and agricultural disruptions in affected communities.

Let’s be clear. The suspension of USAID funding not only weakens immediate humanitarian responses but also long-term stability, governance, and economic resilience in the region. For many who have dedicated themselves to mitigating the challenges along the Mekong River—one of the world’s great waterways—the implications of USAID’s withdrawal are clear: a worsening environmental and political landscape, reduced international engagement, and the loss of vital programs that have long provided hope and tangible improvements to countless vulnerable communities.

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Thank you for reading and subscribing to our free educational newsletter. Our growing team of editors actively connects young environmentalists and citizen scientists who are dedicated to observing and documenting changes along the troubled Mekong River. These individuals play a crucial role in monitoring the region’s environmental developments, gathering vital data, and raising awareness about pressing ecological challenges. By working together, we aim to amplify their voices and support their efforts to protect this vital waterway.

Shrimp farming along the Mekong River may provide an economic boost by generating significant revenue through exports, creating jobs, and supporting local livelihoods. However, it is largely unsustainable due to its severe environmental and social costs.

In an online interview, Quinn Goranson, who currently serves as a policy and research analyst for the Ontario Ministry of Environment, shared insights into her experiences conducting fieldwork abroad. During November 2023, as a graduate student, she spent time on Con Chim Island in Vietnam, working closely with organic farmers. Her research involved hands-on engagement with local agricultural practices, providing her with a deeper understanding of sustainable farming techniques and the environmental challenges faced by this unique community.

Her study reveals that the conversion of mangroves and wetlands into shrimp farms may boost revenues for many family and women-owned businesses, but that it also destroys critical ecosystems, leading to biodiversity loss and reduced natural protection against storms and flooding.

“Many of these farmers are inheriting livelihoods passed down to them by generations and are being forced to contend with shifting and degrading environmental conditions at the hands of governments and international organizations they have never interacted with,” claims Goranson.

It seems that Vietnam’s government boasts a public agenda that is concerned with climate change adaptation while simultaneously pursing a ‘Mekong Delta Regional Integrated Master Plan’ that prioritizes economic development, infrastructure expansion, agricultural intensification, and rapid urbanization.

As a result, the intensive farming practices often result in water pollution from chemical use and waste discharge, which degrades water quality and harms local fisheries. Additionally, soil salinization from shrimp ponds can render agricultural land infertile, threatening food security for nearby communities.

Earnings triumph over environment

Small-scale farmers, like everyone else, want to earn more each year, but this often harms the environment. Vietnam's Mekong Delta Master Plan and Resolution 120 highlight this tension. These policies aim to cut domestic rice production by 50% to reduce carbon emissions while also promising a 6% increase in regional economic growth through intensified farming.

Poor farmers in the Mekong Delta are far too focused on immediate survival and making a living to consider long-term environmental consequences, as their limited resources and daily challenges leave little room for such forward-thinking. Goranson adds, “I learned in Vietnam that having the capacity to care about climate change is a privilege, and it is therefore only further proof that the burden to act is on the global north, multinationals, government and regulatory bodies, and the global and local elites.”

For many, in more Mekong Delta studies, there’s a growing consensus that environmental values and the preservation of ecosystems should drive policy development over economic motives. While farmers are rewarded with short-term financial gains for increasing their shrimp and rice growing models, the disregard for long-term impacts on soil, air, and water quality will hurt the agricultural economy in one of southeast Asia’s most important regions.

The cumulative impacts undermine the long-term ecological balance and economic stability of the region, making shrimp farming an unsustainable practice despite its short-term financial benefits.

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The Sarus Crane holds a central place in the Mekong region's biodiversity as a keystone species and a symbol of ecological balance, cultural heritage, and conservation challenges. Found across the wetlands of the Mekong Delta, this majestic crane—the tallest flying bird in the world—is intricately linked to the health and stability of its ecosystem. Its presence reflects the vitality of the region’s floodplains, marshes, and agricultural landscapes.

Sarus Cranes depend on extensive wetlands for feeding and breeding, thriving in environments rich with aquatic plants, insects, and small vertebrates. These wetlands are not only crucial for the cranes but also support an extraordinary range of biodiversity, including fish, amphibians, reptiles, and migratory birds. By feeding on and dispersing seeds, the Sarus Crane plays a role in maintaining plant diversity and influencing wetland dynamics. Their foraging activity aerates the soil and creates microhabitats for other species, reinforcing the interdependence of life within these ecosystems. As such it’s great news to learn that NatureLife Cambodia has spotted 22 Sarus Cranes last month in Lomphat Wildlife Sanctuary.

Symbol of Wetland Health and Conservation

The Sarus Crane is often considered a “sentinel species” because its population trends reflect the health of its wetland habitat. A decline in crane numbers signals ecological stress caused by habitat loss, pollution, or water mismanagement. The wetlands of the Mekong Delta, crucial for the crane's survival, are under increasing pressure from agricultural expansion, dam construction, and climate change, leading to the loss of vital breeding and feeding grounds. Efforts to conserve the crane inherently involve preserving these wetlands, benefiting countless other species and human communities reliant on the ecosystem. So, these recent sightings bode well for the region’s protection of the vulnerable species listed on the IUCN Red List.

Cultural and Spiritual Significance

In addition to its ecological role, the Sarus Crane is deeply symbolic in the cultures of the Mekong region. For centuries, it has been revered as a symbol of longevity, fidelity, and harmony with nature. Its graceful movements and enduring pair bonds—cranes mate for life—make it an emblem of unity and resilience in folklore and traditional art. For many local communities, the bird embodies a connection to the natural world, underscoring the importance of coexistence and stewardship.

Challenges and the Need for Action

Despite its importance, there’s still a need for constant vigilance in the protection of the Sarus Cranes since they continue to face significant threats, including habitat destruction, pesticide use, and human disturbance. Conservation initiatives, such as protected wetland reserves and sustainable agricultural practices, aim to safeguard this species. Credit must be given to the efforts of USAID, the Ministry of Environment and the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund, who have implemented various Sarus Crane conservation efforts. These initiatives are critical not only for the survival of the crane but also for the broader goal of maintaining the Mekong Delta's unique and fragile biodiversity.

The Sarus Crane is far more than an iconic bird of the Mekong—it is a living barometer of ecological health, a driver of biodiversity, and a cultural treasure. Protecting this species represents a commitment to the preservation of the entire ecosystem, reflecting a broader vision of sustainable coexistence between humans and nature.

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