ABSTRACT
Water resources have become increasingly scarce, as the demand for water from multiple users has increased. Sharing of water has therefore become increasingly complex as more and more actors compete for access to, and use of, the resource. In the absence of well-defined water rights, water scarcity can drive water conflicts, which may have profound consequences on societal stability. This chapter deals with the types and causes of water conflicts, both within and between states. The differences between various types of water rights and how these rights determine access to water are explained. The chapter discusses the role of international treaties, laws and institutions in resolving water conflicts both within and between nations. The chapter also discusses how water can act as a catalyst for cooperation and enables countries to cooperate. Seven case studies are presented to illustrate the key concepts around water conflict, law and cooperation, and highlight the nature of water resource interdependencies between nations.
