Dammed Mekong: lasting challenges for the region’s energy security
The recent collapse of the Xe-Pian Xe-Namnoy dam in Laos shows Southeast Asia’s vulnerability to natural disasters and highlights the importance of emergency preparedness, safety regulation, and sustainable development planning in energy security policies. It also demonstrates the growing asymmetry that’s emanating from an economic growth strategy based on resource-dependence. Countries in the Mekong region need to take a long-term view and consider diversifying their energy exports to reduce reliance on the high-risk hydropower industry.
