Challenges in the Mekong Sub-Region

Understanding the challenges through a set of thematic maps

The transboundary Mekong River is currently experiencing ongoing changes arising from climate change and human activities. These factors are anticipated to impact the flow patterns and floods substantially. Consequently, there is a notable decline in the productivity of aquatic ecosystems, disruptions in riverine transport, and a potential reduction in the availability of freshwater resources. These changes pose significant challenges to the communities that rely on the Mekong River for their livelihoods. To address these pressing issues, it is crucial to prioritize implementing Nature-based Solutions (NbS) in the Mekong Region, because they result from a systems approach applied to the physical-, ecological-, social- and financial system.

The CRxN Mekong Project has identified three sites in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos as part of its initiative. Thailand was added to the scope of the commissioned assignment. To this end, it is essential to also highlight the issues, challenges, and desired goals associated with implementing NbS at the country level.