Chinese hydro-diplomacy and hydro-hegemony on the Mekong River

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.53943/ELCV.0126_136-148

Keywords:

China, Hydrodiplomacy, Hydrohegemony, Mekong

Abstract

This paper seeks to analyze the geopolitical and hydro-political dynamics surrounding the Mekong River, focusing particularly on China’s role as a hydro-hegemonic power. The research examines the impact of Chinese infrastructure projects, such as the construction of dams, on the governance of the river and on regional relations, particularly in conditioning the flow of water to Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam, both through hydro-diplomatic initiatives such as the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation Forum and the Greater Mekong Subregion Initiative. The study also highlights the environmental, economic and political consequences of these developments, with special emphasis on the negative impacts on local communities and ecosystems.

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Published

2026-06-30

Issue

No. 16 (2026): Creation, Art, Movements and Manifestations: Spaces of Resistance and Re-existence

Section

Artigos Multitemáticos

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