Pak Mun Dam Update

As part of a network of social and environmental movements in Esan, the AAN is always in close communication other groups of farmers, fisherfolk and urban communities.  The Pak Mun struggle continues today, as the government is finally entertaining a debate about decommissioning the dam.  Pak Mun protesters have become increasingly active in Ubon Ratchatani, with recent protests at City Hall organized by the Assembly of the Poor (AOP).  Sompong Vienchan was even recently interviewed and here is a recent editorial from the Bangkok Post:

Bangkok Post February 25, 2011

When you make a mistake, you accept it and apologise, make amends and stop repeating the same error without end. That is what civilised people do, and there can be no reason why Thailand’s governments should flout this golden rule.

Potential Impacts of Pak Chom Dam

Here is Tipakson Manpati’s new report on the potential impacts of Pak Chom Dam on food security in communities living along the Mekong River in Loei province, Esan’s frontier with northern Thailand.  AAN Esan is currently researching palm oil production in Loei province, which would almost definitely benefit from the Pak Chom Dam’s construction.  The Pak Chom Dam is one of 11 planned for Mekong River.  Please visit Radio Free Asia’s “Traveling Down the Mekong” for more information.

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