ABSTRACT
This fi rst case study introduces the Mekong River as an important subregion (politically, economically and ecologically) in the Asia-Pacifi c that has implications for the wider region. The chapter starts with a brief historical overview before focusing on the stakes of the individual riparians. This section also mentions existing disputes and challenges in other issue areas that can impact on the decisions made regarding water resource management. The second part focuses on current multilateral cooperation in the Mekong region and highlights each institution’s specifi c goals, aims, members, donors, actions and implications for the region. This includes the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) as a wider regional umbrella for development in the region, before the focus is shifted to the Mekong River Commission (MRC) and the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) and their infl uence in the region, including how they have addressed environmental challenges and sustainable development over the last decade. Lastly, the chapter uses case studies within the basin to provide an insight into decision-making on three key decisions made in recent times. These include the case of the Xayaburi Dam in the north-western part of Laos; the Lower Sesan II (LS II) tributary dam in Cambodia; and the blasting of rapids in northern Laos to improve navigation between Yunnan Province and Thailand via Laos.
