Regional Seminar of Water Politics and Water Governance in the Mekong Countries
Publication Description
SUMMARY
The Regional Seminar on Water Politics and Water Governance in the Mekong Countries was hosted by the Center for Ethnic Studies and Development (CESD), in collaboration with the Regional Center for Social Science and Sustainable Development (RCSD), Faculty of Social Sciences, Chiang Mai University from November 22nd to November 24th, 2023 at the Bisirimaya Hotel in Chiang Mai, Thailand.
During the first two days of the seminar, participants engaged panel discussions and paper presentations covering a wide range of topics. Key themes revolved around water management politics and governance of countries situated along the Mekong and Salween Rivers, along with in-depth exploration of hydro-sociology concepts. The discussions also covered the role of the MRC, considerations of environmental justice in the context of large-scale development projects, the interplay of local knowledge with food security, the participation of women and
ethnic groups in water governance, business and human rights in cross-border water management, and the impact of sedimentation and its accumulation on lifestyle. On the final day of the seminar, insightful presentations and exchanges on cross-border social networks were held, along with discussions on scientific research methods aimed at strengthening local initiatives in water management. The inclusion of a photo exhibition and film screenings added to the overall value of the event.
The seminar featured 71 participants, including 35 presenters comprising senior and junior scholars, and practitioners with experience in studying and researching the transformation of the Mekong and Salween Rivers, as well as the role of international organizations in water management. Presenters, participants and observers from Cambodia, Vietnam, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, the Philippines, Myanmar, Australia, the USA, France, Singapore, and Thailand actively joined and contributed their findings and perspectives to the seminar. The event was supported by International Rivers, and the Mekong Culture Well, Henry Luce Foundation.
This report covers the summary of the presentations, debates, and analyses shared during the two and a half-day meeting. The concept note and seminar agenda can be found in the ANNEX.