Conflict Analysis for Water Diplomacy
Water diplomacy aims at preventing, mitigating, and resolving tensions related to shared water resources by combining the means of diplomacy and water expertise. As climate change, geopolitical tensions, economic crises and other developments increase vulnerability around the world, water diplomacy can offer new cross-sectoral solutions and perspectives. However, as an inherently political endeavour, water diplomacy needs to be based on a thorough analysis of the relevant political, environmental, social, and economic dynamics.
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Practical guidebook
To support the situational awareness and knowledge base needed for practical implementation, the Finnish Water Way project has developed a conflict analysis tool for water diplomacy. Here we provide a guidebook which 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.
Conflict analysis tool for Water Diplomacy. Source: Hakala et al. 2023 © Graphics: Kaarina Tammisto
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More information
- Leading Researcher Katariina Mustasilta, firstname.lastname@fiia.fi
- Leading Researcher Emma Hakala, firstname.lastname@fiia.fi