Mekong - U.S. Partnership
Niwat is the leader of the Chiang Khong Conservation Group. Born and raised on the banks of Mekong River in Chiang Rai, Thailand, Niwat’s life has been shaped by nature and the river. He has seen the highs and the lows of the river’s life on his front doorstep. His work raises critical questions about the nature of development. He works to unify local communities to stand against irresponsible development that exploits the Mekong and its environs. Niwat hopes to attract more attention for challenges to the Mekong River through establishing the civil-society led Mekong People’s Council of Thailand. He and his colleagues also work on highlighting arts and culture of various peoples in the Mekong River Basin. Niwat established the Nam Khong School, which promotes local knowledge and social justice along the Mekong. The school’s philosophy is based on outdoor learning and village empowerment through research and participatory action.
Khmer and English Subtitles to be added in December 2021
