Conflicts and security in integrated water resources management

Mohammad Al-Saidi*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

52 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Water sector reforms based on the concept of Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) are criticized for not considering context, local realities or legitimacy during the implementation of water sector reforms. Universal remedies of IWRM can thus lead to resistance, conflicts and ultimately failures of interventions. This paper examines how conflicts and disharmony can be addressed by IWRM's instruments. It conceptualizes institutional security as a highly relevant issue to be addressed during water management interventions. Further, the paper advocates a reform of the holistic concept of IWRM to incorporate ‘peace and security’ as a new pillar of water management based on a broad understanding of societal goals that are embedded in the principles of good governance and sustainable development. It also reviews recent criticism of and debates in IWRM and explains the advantages of expanding the normative idea behind it.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)38-44
Number of pages7
JournalEnvironmental Science and Policy
Volume73
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jul 2017
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Integrated water resources management
  • Peace and security
  • Sustainable development agenda
  • Water conflicts
  • Water governance

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