John Lichtefeld is a Principal at The Asia Group (TAG), where he provides strategic advice and regulatory analysis for private sector firms and INGOs operating or considering entry or expansion in emerging markets in Southeast Asia. In addition to his work with The Asia Group, he is a researcher and advocate for sustainable development in the region. As an independent consultant, John has supported USAID climate adaptation projects, as well as local organizations, including the Cambodia Climate Change Network. He is also a Non-Resident Fellow with the Stimson Center’s Southeast Asia Program, where he supports the team’s work towards ensuring the sustainable and equitable development of the Mekong River and its resources.

John’s primary research focus is on the impact of climate change on human and regional security within the Mekong Basin and the perceptions of climate risk among the security services in the region. He has led panels, participated in seminars, and met with senior members of the regional diplomatic corps and security services to discuss potential climate impacts and steps that policymakers should consider to mitigate risk and enhance cooperation. He is also the author of the Center for Climate and Security’s “Climate Security in Mainland Southeast Asia” report.

John earned a Master of Arts in Security Policy Studies from the Elliott School of International Affairs at the George Washington University, where he concentrated in security and development and environmental security. He also has a J.D. from Georgetown Law, where he served as a sustainability fellow, and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Johns Hopkins University. When he is not reading and writing about Southeast Asia, John is an avid cyclist, aspiring amateur chef, and occasional disc jockey.