Handbook on Water Allocation in a Transboundary Context

The Meeting of the Parties to the Convention on the Protection and Use of Transboundary Watercourses and International Lakes (Water Convention) decided to develop a handbook on equitable and sustainable water allocation in transboundary basins. Work began in 2019, and the Handbook will provide a global review of water allocation arrangements, illustrative case studies, and guidance on key elements, options, and approaches for agreeing on water allocations.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 8 pages
Publication date: 01 April 2022
Publisher: United Nations

At its eighth session, the Meeting of the Parties to the Convention on the Protection and Use of Transboundary Watercourses and International Lakes (Water Convention) took a significant decision to develop a comprehensive handbook that would serve as a valuable guide for equitable and sustainable water allocation in the transboundary context. Recognizing the importance of addressing both surface waters and groundwaters, as well as environmental flows (programme area 3, activity 3.3), the Meeting aimed to compile a comprehensive set of practices and principles to facilitate effective water management across borders.

The development of the Transboundary Water Allocation Handbook commenced in 2019, with the objective of providing a global overview of water allocation arrangements in transboundary basins. This handbook will feature illustrative case studies from various regions worldwide, showcasing diverse approaches and challenges encountered in transboundary water allocation. An Expert Group has been established to provide guidance and oversight throughout the handbook's development process, ensuring that it encompasses a comprehensive structure, substantive content, and relevant illustrative case studies.

The Handbook will serve as a valuable resource for policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders involved in transboundary water management. It will provide a reference point for understanding the key elements necessary for agreeing on water allocations, including institutional frameworks, data sharing, technical and legal options, and considerations for designing a process to achieve consensus. Additionally, the Handbook will showcase the benefits that can be derived from agreeing on water allocation, such as improved water quality, increased resilience to climate change, and enhanced economic development.

Furthermore, the Handbook will address the experience gained from implementing existing allocation arrangements and highlight the limitations and challenges associated with water allocation. By examining these aspects, the Handbook will contribute to the ongoing efforts to improve water management practices and promote sustainable water use in transboundary basins.

In conclusion, the development of the Transboundary Water Allocation Handbook is a crucial step towards promoting equitable and sustainable water allocation in the transboundary context. It will serve as a valuable tool for policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders, providing guidance and insights into the complex issues surrounding water management across borders.

ISBN-13: 9789211172737