Social impact of Chinese dams in the Upper Mekong River on Amphoe Chiang Saen and Amphoe Chiang Khong, Changwat Chiang Rai

Abstract

Hydropower development projects in the Upper Mekong River are now significant issues for the Mekong’s riparian countries. As the problems and impacts from Chinese dams have become critical issues for its riparian countries and affected a large number of people, with more attention from the public are paid on them; therefore, it is considerably necessary to study these issues practically. The objectives of this study are; firstly, to investigate social impacts caused by Chinese dams on Chiang Saen and Chiang Khong district, Chiang Rai Province, as they are the first two districts along the Mekong River; and secondly, to study social networks and movements of NGOs and local community organizations in dealing with the social problems caused by Chinese dams. It also includes participation of NGOs and local community organizations which have played a part in dealing with the social problems causing by dam constructions in China on the Upper Mekong River. This study is based on the information of social impacts and role of Thai NGOs and community organizations on opposing the dams in the Upper Mekong River. Therefore, the methodology for this study is qualitative research conducted by in-depth interviews with key informants; local leaders, NGOs, local community officials concerned with these issues. The result from interviews is categorized into two perspectives which are government sector and people sector. This research found there are social impacts occurring in Chiang Saen and Chiang Khong districts. In addition, the finding of the research is that while the government sector did not affirm that the Chinese dams in the Mekong River causing critical impacts on Chiang Saen and Chiang Khong districts, the people sector did confirm that there are social impacts in these two areas and they could give detail and information on these issues thoroughly.