Accountability and Rights in Right-based Approaches for Local Water Governance

Abstract

This paper explores local rights and accountability in local water resource management. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and government agencies have an important role and responsibility to create an environment in which people can assume accountability and have a greater chance to get their rights to water fulfilled. A framework of research questions is proposed within a Right-based Approaches (RBA) framework. Answers to these questions could contribute to the policy responses necessary to ensure that rights of the underprivileged groups in particular in local communities are fulfilled and that they can assume their own share of accountability for the good use of available water resources.

Acknowledgement

This paper reflects some 30 years of experience of the author with projects that deal with natural resource management, from watershed management, community forestry and sustainable land use to local water management.

Notes

1. It should be noted that ownership in water management practices is not necessarily the same as ownership over the water resource itself.