The Mekong Committee

The Mekong Committee was established in 1957 and it operated from 1957 to 1978. This committee was the first in the region to collect and study basin data for stable water development before the construction of dam projects. Studies on the potential economic and social development of the Lower Mekong Basin were carried out, flood forecasting was put in place and methods to improve agriculture were implemented. During this period, some dams were constructed on the tributaries of the Mekong River.

The Interim Mekong Committee

Following the Mekong Committee was the Interim Mekong Committee, which operated from 1978 to 1995. During this period, in addition to data collection and flood forecasting, they launched new programmes to better understand the interactions along the Mekong River. Studies on the impact of climate change on the hydrology of the river, the environment, and the local community were conducted.

Lessons Learnt

Despite the unstable political and economic environment throughout the duration of these two predecessors, these organisations provided a forum for countries to discuss water security issues and matters of common interest, aiding to resolve regional conflicts.