The need for diplomatic action over transboundary water resources is obvious. There are more than 300 transboundary surface water basins (McCracken and Wolf 2019) and more than 400 shared aquifers globally (International Groundwater Resources Assessment Centre 2021), meaning that the use of water resources by one state can affect other riparian states. This situation can lead not only to differences in interests between riparian states but also to disagreements or even conflicts. Many other such examples exist around the world. In this Science Talk, Prof. Mohd Faizee will provide an overview of the concept of water diplomacy and, specifically, the different tracks through which diplomatic tools are applied. He will discuss the third party’s engagement and the role they can play in promoting water diplomacy and providing mediation support, the limits to such support and potential constraints accompanying third parties’ engagement in disputes over transboundary waters.
Speaker
Prof. Mohd Faizee
Professor of Practice, Water Security and Diplomacy in Fragile States
