Water Security and International Law

Main author: Cullet, Philippe
Other authors: Koonan, Sujith
Bhullar, Lovleen
Format: Journal Article           
Online access: Click here to view record


id eprints-35175
recordtype eprints
institution SOAS, University of London
collection SOAS Research Online
language English
language_search English
description International law seeks to ensure water security and to prevent or resolve conflicts leading to water insecurity. This relationship is based on a hybrid framework comprising binding and nonbinding instruments. The multi-scalar dimensions of water (in)security are recognized, but further engagement is required. The link between international law and water (in)security is considered primarily through the lens of international water law, which focuses on transboundary (surface) watercourses. Groundwater—the other main source of water and determinant of water (in)security—receives little attention. Further, the traditional state-centric approach, with its emphasis on sovereignty and cooperation, remains the dominant paradigm despite some attempts to redefine it. Several other branches of international law present opportunities for expanding international law's engagement with the water security discourse. Finally, the climate change challenge requires a reconsideration of international law's approach to water (in)security while considering the global dimensions of water.
format Journal Article
author Cullet, Philippe
author_facet Cullet, Philippe
Koonan, Sujith
Bhullar, Lovleen
authorStr Cullet, Philippe
author_letter Cullet, Philippe
author2 Koonan, Sujith
Bhullar, Lovleen
author2Str Koonan, Sujith
Bhullar, Lovleen
title Water Security and International Law
publisher Annual Reviews
publishDate 2021
url https://eprints.soas.ac.uk/35175/