Policy analysis

Mining in Myanmar’s eastern borderlands has become a transboundary crisis. What was once framed as a potential engine for development now fuels armed conflict, weakens governance, and spreads toxic pollution through shared river systems into Thailand.

Nepal has already linked recovery needs to loss-and-damage mechanisms, submitting claims related to the disaster. Bhutan, which has long prioritised environmental conservation, brings complementary experience in balancing development with ecological limits.

Participants stressed that a broad-based alliance supported by strong journalists’ unions was essential to protect independent journalism and expand the space for free expression.