Water Policy 7 (2005) 385-412

Water in the Middle East revisited: conflict management alternatives

M. El-Fadel and K. El-Fadl

*Corresponding author. Water Resources Center, American University of Beirut, Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, Bliss Street, PO Box 11-0236, Lebanon, Fax: 961-1-744 462, mfadel@aub.edu.lb

Corresponding author. Water Resources Center, American University of Beirut, Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, Bliss Street, PO Box 11-0236, Lebanon, Fax: 961-1-744 462, mfadel@aub.edu.lb

Water resources have been the source of political tension across continents including the Middle East – the region located in southwestern Asia renowned for its arid climate and water scarcity. A multitude of economic, social, cultural, environmental and political issues govern current water sharing policies in this region where politics appears to be the most prominent and influential factor for water allocation. In fact, water allocation along international rivers in the region is largely determined by political power. Past and recent experiences indicate that the complex and politically sensitive issues of international watersheds cannot be resolved unilaterally, but rather require a genuine cooperation and commitment between countries, in addition to an understanding and acknowledgement of each others' needs. This paper revisits adjustments at the national and international levels geared towards the resolution of water disputes in the Middle East with the ultimate goal of promoting regional consensus for the integrated development of various watersheds.

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