Laos & Thailand

Many countries in Southeast Asia face significant challenges in protecting the environment and the rights of local communities. In Laos, more specifically, the economic opening and transition towards a market-oriented economy has led to an accelerated growth driven by natural resource extraction. Consequently, the ability of the landscapes to provide multifunctional services has diminished, leading to a decline in local livelihoods. Currently located at Kasetsart University in Bangkok and hosted by the Regional Centre for People and Forests (RECOFTC), our Hub Southeast Asia has its first solutionscape in Xayabury, Laos. From there, our research efforts will expand into neighboring countries. We have already initiated activities in Nan, an adjacent area in northern Thailand.  

Our hub's core activities revolve around establishing connections between local research institutes and scholars from diverse backgrounds and the private sector in Southeast Asia and China. Together, we aim to collaboratively develop pathways and solutions that empower local communities and governments to protect and enhance biodiversity while improving livelihoods in the region.