“Nuclear Energy: Myanmar’s military government has signed a cooperation agreement with Russia to construct a small modular reactor (SMR), claiming it is for electricity generation and the development of technological personnel. The project is planned to be located in central or southern Myanmar, some areas of which are not far from the Thai border, such as Tavoy or Bago. This has raised concerns about cross-border impacts, including environmental effects, security, and the risk of radiation leakage in the event of an accident.
Although Myanmar states that it is using internationally recognized technology and insists that the project is under the peaceful framework of nuclear energy, many parties—including regional security academics—question the transparency of the military government and the lack of sufficient oversight by international organizations like the IAEA. If a serious incident were to occur, such as an accident or the use of nuclear energy for military purposes, it could directly affect Thailand, especially the western and lower northern regions.
Experts suggest that Thailand should closely monitor the situation, expedite coordination through regional mechanisms, and prepare emergency response plans to protect public health and the environment in the long term.”
