The Cross-fertilization between the Sustainable Development Goals and International Water Law

Abstract

Are the main principles of international water law, as reflected in the Watercourses Convention, sufficiently equipped to motivate States to sustainably manage their freshwater resources? This article suggests that a more pronounced sustainable approach to these principles is desirable. The Sustainable Development Goals might give this ‘green’ evolution of international water law a further push in the right direction. In this contribution, three elements that could be the focus of this evolution are identified: (i) a sustainable interpretation of the principle of equitable and reasonable utilization of shared watercourses, the no-harm rule and the duty of cooperation; (ii) a commitment to the further development of the ecosystems approach to international water law; and (iii) further emphasis on facilitating public participation in decision making relating to the utilization of international watercourses.