ABSTRACT
Cambodia has been historically defined by its water regime. Situated almost entirely in the Mekong River Basin with its fluctuating levels, water is abundant, yet scarce at times, and in need of sophisticated governance. In ancient times, the Angkor Empire is said to having based its might on a sophisticated water regime, allowing several rice crops a year and the possibility of generating a surplus. Also, its demise was, according to some historical narratives, due to the decline of irrigation-driven rice cultivation. Through subsequent political eras, water has been crucial to the survival and development of Cambodia, but often pursued in a megalomaniac way, putting its hope to large-scale solutions, purportedly saving the country, and guaranteeing its development. Current day Cambodia is still hoping, and planning, for major water-based development interventions, although in a more modern version – such as through dams and major irrigation structures. However, historical failures as well as contemporary questions of sustainability are weighing heavily on these hopes, possibly restricting the most risky projects. Either way, the governance of water remains a central concern for Cambodia's livelihood, development, and state-building.
