Laos’ largest and most controversial hydropower project, Nam Theun 2, began full operation last week in violation of legal obligations to provide compensation and livelihood restoration to affected communities. In an attempt to avoid its obligations, the Nam Theun 2 Power Company (NTPC) called last week’s commencement of power production “commercial export” of electricity rather than “commercial operation” which would require compliance with Concession Agreement provisions…Ikuko Matsumoto, Lao Program Director of International Rivers, said, “The Nam Theun 2 Power Company is operating the dam illegally. The project is violating people’s human rights by preventing access to clean water and by destroying critical food sources without providing compensation.”