Opportunities and Constraints in the Transfer of Water Technology and Experience between Countries and Regions

Caution is called for in endorsing the direct transfer of technology and experience in water management from one situation to another in the expectation that the outcome will be more effective water use. This can best be illustrated by reference to the potential for transfer of developed-world standards and practices to the developing world. Questions arise as to the extent to which such transfers are possible, given contrasting political structures and priorities and different living standards, cultural traits, systems of land tenure, technological and literacy levels and financial and infrastructure constraints. Pursuing over-optimistic expectations that North-South replication and exchange of experience and technology offer a ready solution to the water problems of developing countries is likely to lead to frustration in seeking unrealistic and unachievable outcomes. The preferred approach is to build bridges between water managers and water-using sectors in emerging nations of the developing world, and to encourage a benchmarking process involving the South-South transfer of successful experience and better practice in water management.