Fighting for Water: Resisting Privatization in Europe

Water services have come under renewed neoliberal assault across Europe, but the struggle against water privatization has continued to pick up pace. Fighting for Water by Andreas Bieler dissects the underlying dynamics of the struggle for public water in Europe, showing why water has been a fruitful arena for resistance against neoliberal restructuring.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 17 June 2021
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The global financial crisis has brought about a renewed neoliberal assault on water services across Europe. At the same time, the fight against water privatization has gained momentum, with examples such as the re-municipalization of water in Grenoble in 2000 and the United Nations declaration of water as a human right in 2010. In his book Fighting for Water, Andreas Bieler delves into the intricate dynamics of the struggle for public water in Europe. Through an analysis of successful referendums against water privatization in Italy, the European Citizens Initiative on 'Water and Sanitation are a Human Right,' the struggles against water privatization in Greece, and water charges in Ireland, Bieler demonstrates why water has served as a fertile ground for resistance against neoliberal restructuring.

The book begins by providing a historical overview of the privatization of water services in Europe, highlighting the role of corporations and financial institutions in driving this process. Bieler argues that the commodification of water has led to a decline in public control, increased water prices, and reduced access to clean water for many communities. He also notes that the privatization of water has been accompanied by a rise in water pollution and environmental degradation.

In the subsequent chapters, Bieler examines the various strategies employed by communities and activists to resist water privatization. He highlights the importance of grassroots organizing, public education, and political mobilization in building a strong opposition to privatization. Bieler provides case studies of successful campaigns against water privatization in different European countries, such as Italy, Greece, and Ireland.

One of the key themes of the book is the role of social movements in shaping public opinion and political outcomes. Bieler argues that social movements have been instrumental in mobilizing communities and building a broader coalition against privatization. He also highlights the importance of engaging with policymakers and decision-makers to influence their policies and practices.

Another important aspect of the book is the discussion of the human rights dimension of water. Bieler argues that water is a fundamental human right, and that access to clean water should be considered a basic entitlement for all individuals. He draws on international human rights law and principles to support his argument and calls for the recognition of water as a human right by governments and international organizations.

Throughout the book, Bieler emphasizes the need for a holistic and sustainable approach to water management. He argues that water should be treated as a public good, and that it should be managed and regulated in a way that promotes equity, sustainability, and social justice. Bieler also calls for the development of alternative water management models that prioritize public control, community participation, and environmental protection.

In conclusion, Fighting for Water is a valuable contribution to the ongoing debate about water privatization and the struggle for public water in Europe. By providing a comprehensive analysis of the dynamics of the struggle, Bieler offers insights into the strategies and tactics employed by communities and activists to resist privatization. The book also highlights the importance of social movements.

Dimension: 216 x 135 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781786995087