Youth in Lao PDR explored how to address climate and water insecurity in the Mekong Region

Water is a fundamental resource for over 70% of the population in Lao PDR. Despite its critical importance, water security remains an under-discussed topic, especially among the youth. The SUMERNET Young Professionals (SYP) event aimed to bridge this gap by shedding light on how climate change impacts water resources and mobilizing young professionals to engage in meaningful environmental action.

Some key takeaways below speakers at the webinar show the importance of how young professionals can play a key role in addressing critical climate and water insecurity challenges in the Mekong Region.

Mrs. Valy Phommachak – Co-Founder of Econox Laos

Valy Phommachak emphasized the urgency of actions for addressing climate change, particularly given its impacts on the Mekong Region where many communities depend on agriculture and fisheries. She highlighted how shifts in weather patterns disrupt water resources and ecosystems, thereby affecting livelihoods and local economies. Valy urged young individuals to connect with peers and stakeholders who share a vision for environmental change. Such connections can facilitate collaborative efforts and drive impactful initiatives toward achieving sustainability goals.

Ophakorn Kouphokham – Founder and CEO of XM Technovator (XMT), Laos

Ophakorn Kouphokham urged the participants to cultivate a deep curiosity about the Mekong River and regional environmental issues. He said that curiosity often leads to innovative solutions and emphasized that innovation does not always require advanced technology. Grassroots approaches that address local needs can be highly effective. Ophakorn’s insights underscored the importance of contextualizing innovations to benefit the community and leverage local knowledge.

Apichai Sunchindah – Independent Development Specialist in environment and natural resources management in the Mekong Region

Apichai Sunchindah addressed the challenges faced by young people in tackling water issues within the Mekong River Basin. He acknowledged the complexities and overwhelming nature of these issues but emphasized the importance of perseverance and hope. Apichai encouraged young professionals to take incremental actions, collaborate with others, and allow nature the necessary time to recover. He affirmed that even small steps contribute significantly to broader environmental sustainability.

The webinar underscored the importance of collective action and the valuable role of youth in addressing environmental challenges. By fostering awareness and collaboration, we can work towards effective solutions and ensure a sustainable future for the Mekong River Basin and beyond.

SYP’s involvement in environmental initiatives, coupled with a spirit of collaboration and innovation, positions youth as key drivers of sustainable solutions. Through strategic partnerships and collective action, young professionals can influence policy, implement effective practices, and foster resilience within their communities. The event reinforced that with dedication and teamwork, youth can play a transformative role in ensuring a sustainable future for the Mekong Region and beyond.

This piece offers perspectives from the SUMERNET Young Professionals (SYP) national networking webinar in Lao PDR on July 20^th. Set on the theme of  “Addressing Climate Challenges and Sustainable Management of Water Resources in the Mekong River Basin,” the event was designed to enhance understanding among young professionals about the intricate relationship between climate change and water security in the Mekong Region.

*Photo 1: Attendees of the SYP event in Laos discussed with the Panelists under the theme "Addressing Critical Climate Challenges and Solutions for Sustainable Management of Water Resources in the Mekong River Basin". Photo: SYP Laos.

*Photo 2: Participants divided into two groups to discuss topics related to water security and climate change by using a problem-solving toolkit. Photo: SYP Laos.