Transposing of Water Policies from Developed to Developing Countries

Abstract

This paper examines the potential issues faced by developing country water authorities when subjected to the transposition of developed country water reform policies such as user pays. A case study approach employing two mutually compatible frameworks was adopted in examining these issues. The two frameworks used were a policy transposition comparative framework and an organisationally integrated planning and revenue modelling framework. The combined comparative and modelling approach provides a form of triangulation that, it is argued, strengthens support for the conclusion arrived at as a result of this study. The study found that, in terms of the case organisation, direct transposition of user pays policy was not sustainably viable. Areas for future research are identified, including improved policy review and adaptation mechanisms in facilitating bi-directional developed/developing country policy transposition.

Keywords:

• Water services
• user pays
• organisationally integrated planning
• policy transposition
• developing country