Lower Mekong basin: Existing environment and development needs

Abstract

The Mekong River is an international river running through 6 countries from China, Myanmar, Lao PDR, Thailand, Cambodia, to Viet Nam. Social strife in this geopolitical region, from decades of wars: the cold war, Viet Nam War, Cambodian civil war and some border conflicts, has taken toll on its people throughout the years. As a result, this region is one of the least developed parts of the world, as reflected in the peoples' low living standards, and in social development. This research introduces the scope of regional cooperation, the geophysical features and socio-economic situation of the Mekong River Basin. The sectors' development possibility and the themes for environmental concern are also introduced. All of these are necessary for the harmony of development and conservation of the basin.