The challenges posed by climate change in the Xe Bang Hieng River Basin and urban areas like Luang Prabang city are significant, affecting both rural and urban communities. Floods and droughts damage livelihoods, ecosystems, and infrastructure, while deforestation and rapid urbanization exacerbate these vulnerabilities.

In the Xe Bang Hieng River Basin, seasonal flooding destroys agricultural lands, displaces communities, and erodes infrastructure, while prolonged droughts threaten water availability, ecosystems, and food security. Similarly, Luang Prabang city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is vulnerable to urban flooding, which can damage critical infrastructure, disrupt tourism, and endanger cultural heritage.

To tackle these challenges, UNDP, in partnership with the Government of Lao PDR and support from the Global Environment Facility (GEF), is implementing the Integrated Water Resource Management and Ecosystem-Based Adaptation (EbA) program. This initiative focuses on enhancing resilience to climate-induced hazards through ecosystem restoration, community-based adaptation strategies, and improved water management practices, aimed at strengthening the capacity of both rural and urban communities to withstand the impacts of climate change.