Water-related violence is on the rise, with a nearly 80% increase in incidents since 2022, according to a recent report by the Pacific Institute. This alarming trend highlights the urgent need for comprehensive understanding and proactive measures to address the escalating risks. The thinktank's findings reveal a troubling pattern of water-related conflicts, with 419 incidents recorded in 2024, compared to 235 in 2022.
The report delves into the multifaceted nature of these conflicts, emphasizing the role of climate change, extreme weather, state failure, and political instability. Dr. Peter Gleick, a co-founder and senior fellow at the institute, notes, 'We're witnessing a surge in conflicts, often driven by multiple factors. Climate crisis and extreme weather are significant contributors, but state failure, corrupt governance, and infrastructure mismanagement also play crucial roles.'
Oxfam's water security lead, Joanna Trevor, echoes these concerns, citing an increase in localized conflicts over water due to climate change and water insecurity. Recent examples include the tensions surrounding the Indus River water-sharing treaty between India and Pakistan, Russia's targeting of hydropower dams in Ukraine, Israel's destruction of Gaza's water systems, and protests over water supplies in South Africa.
In Gaza, Israel's systematic weaponization of water has led to severe consequences. Trevor explains, 'Israel deliberately targeted water systems and desalination plants, impeding repairs. This resulted in contaminated drinking water due to the destruction of sewage and storm water infrastructure. People have been attacked while waiting for water, underscoring the devastating impact on the local population.'
The situation in East Africa and the Sahel is equally dire, with water insecurity prompting population displacement. Trevor adds, 'People are moving into new areas to access water, which can trigger competition and conflict with the host population, exacerbating an already challenging situation.'
The political landscape further intensifies these fragile situations. The Colorado River and the Rio Grande in the US have become politically contentious, with treaties dating back to 1944 governing water distribution. However, border politics under the Trump administration have made these issues more contentious, leading to protests and even fatalities in Mexico.
Central Asia is another region of concern, with potential disputes simmering. Gleick mentions, 'Tensions over water have long been present in Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan. Afghanistan's construction of the Qosh Tepa canal, which will divert water from the Amu Darya River, could significantly impact central Asian republics, leading to further conflicts.'
The United Nations' institutes are sounding the alarm, predicting a 40% global freshwater deficit by 2030. The UN University Institute for Water, Environment, and Health has declared an era of 'water bankruptcy.' UNESCO highlights the disparity in water-sharing agreements, noting that only a fifth of countries have cross-border agreements, despite 40% of the world's population residing in transboundary river and lake basins.
To address this crisis, Trevor emphasizes the need for more accountable transboundary treaties that secure the human right to water for all. She argues, 'Current water-sharing agreements are often voluntary and reliant on goodwill, which is insufficient. We must recognize the imperative of equitable water sharing beyond these agreements.'
Gleick offers a glimmer of hope, stating, 'We possess the tools to tackle our water challenges. While the timeline for implementation is uncertain, it is achievable. This encompasses climate change impacts, basic human water needs, ecosystem preservation, and conflict risk reduction.' The Pacific Institute's report serves as a call to action, urging global efforts to prevent further water-related violence and secure a sustainable future for all.
