ABSTRACT
This chapter shows how implementing a decision-making process based on the Commission approach will safeguard rights, reduce the risk of conflicts emerging, and lower overall costs. The framework provides the opportunity for agencies and communities to screen out unfavourable alternatives at an early stage. It intends to open channels of dialogue between stakeholders, increase mutual understanding and help decision-makers, practitioners and affected people assess whether needs have been adequately addressed. Proposals for dam projects that emerge from the screening process will have greater public acceptance. Turning the strategic priorities and their underlying policy principles into reality requires a new focus for planning and management in the water and energy sectors. The chapter concentrates on what needs to change in the way water and energy management plans are developed and projects are designed and implemented. Strategic impact assessments provide an initial level of screening to remove alternatives that have unacceptable social and environmental consequences.
