By Karishma Asoodani and Loïc Fauchon
Water has always been closely linked to geopolitics.
It flows freely in times of peace and harmony. In recent years, as conflicts have spread in many parts of the world, from Western Asia to Eastern Europe, the Horn of Africa and the Sahel, the vulnerability of water systems has become a major concern, all too often dealt with discreetly.
The escalating violence that accompanies these conflicts has raised questions again about the application of international water law. But also on the availability and security of water resources, in the face of the effects of destruction or damage to reservoirs, dams, pumping stations and water treatment plants.
Particular attention is being paid to the consequences of damage to nuclear power plants, especially those located in coastal regions already affected by climate disruptions and intense demographic pressures.
In addition we are faced with threats to shipping lanes in the Middle East, the Red Sea and the Strait of Hormuz, as well as in the Asia-Pacific region.
Other regions perfectly illustrate this fragility and the speed with which water security can be obstructed by geopolitical tensions. This is the case in Dombass, where repeated attacks have deprived the population of water supplies. In Ethiopia’s Tigray region, the conflict has paralyzed vital infrastructure, forcing tens of thousands of people to rely on sources of water that are unsafe for consumption.
In the Gaza Strip, the damage caused to water and electricity stations and networks has plunged the population into deep distress.
These examples are not isolated. They are part of a wider reality, where water is both victim and benefactor. Thanks to dialogue, tolerance and proactive, supportive hydro-diplomacy, water, too often a silent victim, can become a vector of stability.
At the World Water Council, we are convinced that water is an essential peace-building tool. Since the peace of water is the peace of the future world.