Assessing the International Multi-Hazard Disaster Risk Governance in the Greater Mekong Sub-Region

Abstract

The Mekong River Basin faces various interconnected hazards caused by climate risks and human development activities such as rapid hydropower dam construction that may increase disaster risks to downstream countries. Given its multi-hazards and transboundary impacts, it is imperative to create effective, regional-level disaster risk governance across the Mekong Sub-Region’s countries. There are several established cooperation frameworks in the region including the Mekong River Commission (MRC) and the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation (LMC). However, the effectiveness of the regional platforms in governing disasters in the region remains to be understudied, especially in the context of addressing cascading, multihazard risks in the Mekong River Basin. Hence, this paper aims to assess the regional capacity and effectiveness as a regional platform for addressing multihazard and transboundary disaster risks. This paper will utilize a qualitative research method, including desk review and content analysis of relevant literature and policies. For the analytical approach, the paper will also examine how the region employs soft-political collaboration through the International Regime theory. By incorporating perspectives of disaster risk governance and international cooperation issues in the Mekong region, this interdisciplinary study provides a novel angle for the DRR field. Findings from this study are also expected to contribute to achieving the SFDRR Target F of enhancing international cooperation in DRR.