Innovation for Water Infrastructure Development in the Mekong Region
Water-related infrastructure could contribute significantly to the development of
the Mekong region. At the same time, poor water infrastructure could lead to development
challenges for the countries in the region. Innovation for Water Infrastructure Development
in the Mekong Region discusses the challenges facing the region as well as the possible
innovative policy options, including those used in Emerging Asian countries, and with
reference to the experiences of OECD member countries. It provides analysis and recommendations
for the region’s policy makers to consider in their efforts to improve water infrastructure.
The report first provides an overview of the socio-economic contributions and environmental
challenges of the Mekong River. It then presents some potential new financing options
for the development of water infrastructure, using digital tools such as Fintech and
blockchain. It also examines the potential of using the spillover effect of tax revenues
to attract private finance. It then goes on to discuss the importance of strengthening
water infrastructure resilience against natural disasters, including the current COVID-19
pandemic, and finally analyses the challenges of water regulations in the Mekong region.
Published on August 31, 2020
In series:The Development Dimensionview more titles