Media Kit on the Xayaburi Dam

Mekong River downstream of the Xayaburi Dam Site
Mekong River downstream of the Xayaburi Dam Site

The Xayaburi Dam is the first of eleven dams proposed for the Lower Mekong River in Southeast Asia. It officially began construction in 2012 and as of May 2017 is more than 70% complete. As the first dam on the Mekong mainstream, there is serious concern it will open the way for further dam development, with significant consequences for the Mekong River and its people. Despite ongoing and unaddressed concerns regarding the transboundary impacts of the Xayaburi dam, especially on fish migration, the Lao government has moved forward with plans for the second mainstream project, the Don Sahong Dam. This Xayaburi Dam “Media Kit” is intended to help journalists and researchers who seek more detailed information about the Xayaburi Dam and the controversy surrounding the project. For a more general background, please visit our Xayaburi Dam webpage and interactive timeline.

Is the Xayaburi Dam the beginning of a water conflict between the Mekong countries?

What are the main concerns with the Xayaburi Dam?

The status of construction

Has Laos violated international law?

What is Thailand's role in the Xayaburi Dam?

What is Finnish company Pöyry’s role in the project?

What is French company CNR’s role in the project?

Photos

Timeline