ABSTRACT
The privatization of water supply and institutional restructuring of water management – through decentralization and the penetration of global firms in local and regional markets – have been promoted as solutions to increase economic efficiency and achieve universal water supply and sanitation coverage. Yet a significant share of service provision and water resources development remains the responsibility of public authorities. The chapters in this volume – with case evidence from Argentina, Chile, France, USA, Kenya, Jordan, and other countries – address critical questions that dominate the international agenda on public vs. private utilities, service provision, regulations, and resource development.
