Geopolitics of Water Wars

About

Oil was the reason for various so-called “resource wars” in the twentieth century. In the twenty-first century, however, water wars will become more commonplace. This has at least been suggested by among others a former president of Egypt, a former Secretary-General of the United Nations and various political analysts. This course offers you a stimulating geopolitical approach towards water wars. It explains why states consider fresh water as a strategic natural resource and, more strongly, a national interest. The course further clarifies the role of hydro-politics by introducing several past water conflicts. Contemporary inter-state relations in various transboundary rivers basins are discussed as well, including the Nile, Euphrates/Tigris and Mekong. You apply and expand your knowledge of water conflicts through a group assignment. This assignment revolves around the potential for conflict and cooperation in a few disputed areas. Interactive lectures and roundtable discussions help you prepare for your assignment. Based on all assignments, we explore the places where water wars may start in the twenty-first century, and discuss how such wars could be prevented.

Course leader

L.A.S. van Efferink

Target group

▪ Strong motivation and good command of English are essential to get a pass for the course;
▪ Basic knowledge of (geo)political ideas and/or trends is recommended;
▪ Aimed at Bachelor/ Master/ PhD students in Political Sciences/ International Relations/ Geography/ History/ Economics/ Business/ Media Studies/ Journalism/ Cultural Studies/ Linguistics. If in doubt, please contact Leonhardt for personal course selection advice.

Course aim

▪ Exploring the different ways in which water matters to societies different approaches towards water security.
▪ Recognizing the conflict potential of fresh water among states that share water resources.
▪ Understanding the complexity of transboundary river basins in various regions.
▪ Designing a framework to map the various aspects (e.g. geographical, political, economic, historical and environmental) of potential water wars.
▪ Identifying the options for cooperation between states that claim the same water resources.

Fee info