Conflict Analysis for Water Diplomacy: Why, What, How?
Publisher: Finnish Environment Institute
Author(s): Katariina Mustasilta and Emma Hakala
Date: 2023
Topics: Assessment, Renewable Resources
Water diplomacy aims at preventing, mitigating, and resolving tensions related to shared water resources by combining the means of diplomacy and water expertise. As an inherently political endeavour, it is pivotal that water diplomatic efforts are based on a thorough analysis of the relevant political, environmental, social, and economic dynamics. This guidebook outlines the rationale and steps for conflict analysis for water diplomacy as a tool to ensure appropriate and high-quality water diplomatic efforts. Conflict analysis provides a necessary approach whenever planning to engage in water diplomatic efforts in a conflict-vulnerable situation. The guidebook addresses questions on why conflict analysis is needed for water diplomatic efforts, what is meant by conflict analysis, and how one can engage with it. The guidebook is meant to clarify concepts and offer practical steps for any actor engaged in water diplomatic efforts.