Gender and Ethnic Dynamics of Household Decision Making in Hydropower-related Resettlement

Rehabilitation or improvement of livelihoods comprises an important component of hydropower-related resettlement and relocation strategies in Lao PDR and other developing countries. Yet too often such strategies are designed without adequate consideration for the nuanced nature of ‘joint’ household decision-making. A recent study at an ethnic minority village in Bolikhamxay Province, Lao PDR, relocated as part of the Theun-Hinboun hydropower project, revealed some of the underlying gender values, norms and practices that influence the decision making patterns of community members. The insights may help to explain why, despite the implementation of a multi- faceted livelihood package based on consultations with affected villagers, adoption by households remains a challenge. The example highlights a number of lessons and considerations when planning and executing future livelihood strategies for dam- affected communities.

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