Process Support Activities
Since PCCP’s second phase, the case study process follows an innovative approach. The research process supports the cooperative process in managing a transboundary basin or aquifer. The studies therefore not only increase knowledge surrounding a water body, but promote cooperation among the riparian states concerned with the water resources in question. This is achieved by involving high-level players, government advisers, experts and stakeholders, who participate in preparing a consensus document reflecting the status of conflict and cooperation in the transboundary water body.
The process provides a forum in which to discuss sensitive issues related to the transboundary waters in question, in addition to supporting cooperation, exchange of data and information. The process also offers stakeholders an opportunity to build a shared vision for future water management of their water resources.
Transboundary water bodies for case studies are chosen in consultation with local and regional authorities. They are usually relatively small, with no more than two to three riparian states. PCCP concentrates its resources and attention on areas that do not receive the attention given to bigger basins.
In the second and third phases of the programme, the following case studies followed this approach:
- Lake Titicaca (Peru-Bolivia)
- Mono River Basin (Togo-Benin) and
- Ostua Metapan Aquifer (Guatemala-El Salvador)
The paramount objectives of these case studies were to (a) foster cooperation among the riparian states concerned with the selected water body, and (b) increase the degree of knowledge about this water body. This was achieved through the involvement of high-level players, governmental advisers and a host of experts and stakeholders, who were invited to prepare a consensus document reflecting the status on conflict and/or cooperation in the selected water body. The objective of this process was indeed to constitute a forum for the discussion of sensitive issues related to the selected water body. It also supported the actual cooperation and the development of the shared resources. Last but not least, it offered an opportunity for the stakeholders to build a joint vision for the future joint management of their water resources.Back to top