By engaging a broad cross-section of society, participatory approaches improve the quality and diversity of information that is available to decision-makers. Existing assumptions can be tested against different perspectives, values, and experiences. Transparency and public participation also improve governance by fostering public support for decisions and enhancing the accountability of the decision-makers.
Forthcoming in 2022: J. Troell and S. Keene. 2022. Legal Recognition of Customary Water Tenure in Sub-Saharan Africa: Unpacking the Land-Water Nexus. International Water Management Institute Research Report. IWMI: Colombo, Sri Lanka.
FAO. 2020. Unpacking Water Tenure for Improved Food Security and Sustainable Development. FAO Land and Water Discussion Paper No. 15. FAO: Rome.
Most of the laws and institutions governing water around the world — at the international, national, and local levels — are flawed in one fundamental respect: they do not account for the complexity or uncertainty inherent in water management. Yet, we live in a complex world full of uncertainty. The nonlinear nature of the hydrologic cycle is well-documented. As the debate on climate change and climate change models illustrates, it can be notoriously difficult to develop models that accurately predict the hydrologic cycle and the factors that affect it.
Water is essential for human health and well-being, sustains livelihoods, food security, and ecosystems, and is integral to economic development. Yet, an estimated 2.3 billion people live in water-stressed countries. While this scarcity can be physical, it is often a result of poor governance.
