Case Studies > Nam Theun

Contested Landscapes of the Nam Theun

This multi-scale study of the landscape of the Nam Theun river system in Lao PDR explores how resource developments are contested by different stakeholders at differnt levels.

Large scale resource developments, in particular hydropower dams, have been a part of the development landscape of the Nam Theun since the 1970s. The historical legacy of regional resource planning from this period has set the contemporary scene of resource developments on the Nam Theun that relies solely on hydropower to service the 'national interest' at the exclusion of other possible resource developments. At issue is whether the sacrifices that local communities have been asked to make for the national interest will be effectively compensated for.

Two case studies of hydropower developments on the Nam Theun are provided here, that of Nam Theun 2 and Theun Hinboun in lesser detail.

Detailed Information: Contested Landscapes of the Nam Theun

© 2005 Australian Mekong Resource Centre