Oxfam and Mekong Communities Unite on Global Water and River Days to Strengthen Inclusive Governance and Climate Resilience

From March 24-26, Oxfam joined civil society organizations, riverine communities, and government institutions in commemorating three global observances including International Women’s Day, International Day of Action for Rivers, and World Water Day in Stung Treng province.

More than 90 participants including women, youth, Indigenous peoples, people with disabilities, government agencies, academia, and development partners gathered to highlight the themes of “Water, River, Resilience, and GEDSI (Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion).” The celebrations brought together diverse voices to learn about community-led initiatives, share knowledge, and inspire collective action for resilient and sustainable water governance.

Highlights included presentations of community-driven projects co-designed by women, people with disability, Indigenous peoples, and marginalized groups, alongside keynotes and panel discussions on barriers to water access, inclusive governance, and strengthening women’s leadership in climate resilience. Participants camped along the Mekong River at Koh Samseb Community-Based Ecotourism, sharing meals, cultural performances​ and roundtable discussion with local communities and youth. The camping experience provided a unique opportunity to connect directly with the river ecosystem, witness traditional livelihoods such as fishing and riverine farming, and reflect on the importance of protecting these resources for future generations.

A River Solidarity Walk and Clean-Up, led by the Ministry of Environment, symbolized shared responsibility for safeguarding river ecosystems. Participants also traveled by boat to the Mekong Flooded Forest, experiencing firsthand the biodiversity of one of Cambodia’s most important riverine ecosystems. The trip highlighted the critical role of flooded forests in sustaining fisheries, ecotourism, protecting livelihoods, and buffering communities against climate impacts. The celebrations concluded and provided participants with experiences, where Indigenous women, youth, and local people shared experiences through river-inspired art and traditional performances, illustrating how climate change and unsustainable development affect river ecosystems and local livelihoods.

The celebration in Stung Treng and Kratie provinces reflects the urgent challenges across the Mekong basin, where climate change, hydropower development and unsustainable resource use threaten ecosystems and livelihoods. These local actions align with global commitment such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), Goal 13 (Climate Action) and Goal 15 (Life on Land) and reinforce the Paris Agreement’s call for inclusive, community-driven climate resilience.

H.E. An Pich Hatda, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology, said, “The Mekong River Basin supports the daily lives and livelihoods of millions of people. Strengthening water governance means listening to communities, civil society, and all stakeholders, so decisions lead to real resilience and sustainable development.”

H.E. Ngin Lina, Secretary of State, Ministry of Environment, said, “Protecting the Mekong River ecosystem means safeguarding the lifeblood of our communities, promoting public health, enhancing resilience to climate change, and expanding opportunities for sustainable livelihoods. Walking together reflects our solidarity and shared responsibility in preserving biodiversity, cultural heritage, well-being, and the future of millions who depend on the river. The planning of any development project must involve inclusive and transparent consultation with communities, civil society organizations, and relevant institutions to ensure social, economic, and environmental responsibility with youth serving as the driving force for change.”

Ms. Phean Sophoan, National Director of Oxfam, said, “In the face of climate change and existential threats, protecting rivers requires inclusive governance, transboundary cooperation, and sustainable practices. The participation and voice of most vulnerable groups are essential.   When diverse perspectives are included in decision-making, rivers are managed sustainably and equitably for future generations.”

Mr. Men Kong, Deputy Governor of Stung Treng Provincial Administration, said, “The Mekong River and its tributaries are vital for sustaining biodiversity and supporting the livelihoods of communities in Stung Treng province and across the Mekong region. Community-based water resource management is essential to ensure inclusivity and long-term sustainability.”

Cheng Phearun, Koh Krouch Community Represenative, Treng said, “our generation is inheriting both the beauty and the challenges of the Mekong. By joining hands together, and community leadership especially Indigenous leaders and women, we are showing that protecting the river is now only about survival, it is about resource justice, identify, and our shared future.”

An Pheary, Indigenous Youth Representative from Kampong Pang village, Stung Treng province, said, an Indigenous woman from Kratie province, said, “The river carries our traditions and our spirit. When we speak up in decision-making, we are not only defending our community, but we are defending the Mekong for all who depend on it.” 

The celebrations concluded with reflections and solidarity, highlighted that when women and marginalized groups actively participate in decision-making, they lay the foundation for a more progressive and inclusive society. The future of the Mekong Basin depends on transforming this vision into action, championing equity, amplifying voices, and advancing resilience through inclusive and sustainable development across the region.​ 

Participants urged the government and relevant institutions to strengthen river protection policies that safeguard the rights to life, economic, social security, social justice and environmental well‑being of women, children, persons with disabilities, youth, and other vulnerable groups. All river related development projects must undergo thorough studies and meaningful consultations to ensure community concerns are addressed with proper planning to guarantee sustainable environmental and social protection. 

Communities are encouraged to remain actively engaged in river conservation by reducing pollution, stopping illegal fishing, and preventing resource overuse. Youth are encouraged to serve as a core force in river protection contributing ideas, conducting research, and raising awareness about the impacts of human activities and climate change. All citizens are invited to celebrate World Water Day and the International Day of Action for Rivers in 2026 through everyday actions such as keeping rivers clean, conserving water, and using it efficiently.