Water diplomacy

Water diplomacy concerns water-related challenges and conflicts through negotiation, cooperation, and collaboration among various stakeholders, including nations, organizations, and communities.

Water diplomacy aims to resolve or reduce disagreements and conflicts over shared water resources to promote cooperation, regional stability, and peace.

Water covers approximately 70,9 % of the Earth’s surface. 

It is essential for agriculture and also as a source of food. Water transportation is the most effective method of moving large products across long distances. Goods are transported by boats through seas, rivers, lakes, and canals. Hydropower is a reliable and low-cost source of clean electricity. These facts alone demonstrate its economic importance as a natural wealth and energy source.

In conclusion, water can be a source of conflict, it can be used as a weapon or as a tool for peace. Governments and other participants need to create a framework through diplomatic activities to promote dialogues between a broad spectrum of water users. 

Water diplomacy involves the following key aspects:

Negotiation and mediation on agreements on water allocation, management, and sharing are acceptable to all parties involved.

Conflict resolution for resolving disputes or potential conflicts related to water resources through peaceful means, such as mediation, arbitration, or other collaborative processes.

Cooperation and collaboration for developing joint projects, sharing knowledge, and capacity development. 

Legal frameworks and agreements that regulate the use and sharing of transboundary water resources, ensuring equitable and sustainable management.

Multi-stakeholder engagement of a wide range of stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, the private sector, local communities, and academia, to ensure diverse perspectives and expertise are considered in decision-making processes.