Water Allocation Problem From the Perspective of Equitable

Water Allocation Problem From the Perspective of Equitable and Reasonable Utilization Principle Zheng Chenjun Wuhan University China Institute of Boundary and Ocean Studies December 2018

p First, the basic problems contents p Second, the extended problems

pthe basic problems p The principle of equitable and reasonable use is a basic principle of International Water Law Ø It belongs to the category of Customary International Law. Ø The sources of this principle can be summarized as international treaties, judicial adjudications and arbitrations, soft law rules.

the basic problems p Application of the principle in the water allocation of transboundary rivers Ø Indication, comprehensiveness and flexibility. Ø Various uses of international rivers are not prioritized. Ø Specific analysis of specific issues. Ø Pay special attention to the factors of “significant human needs”.

the basic problems p How to understand the meaning of the principle of equitable and reasonable use? Ø The principle of equitable use does not necessarily has a positive correlation with the equivalence sharing of water and water benefits. Ø The principle of reasonable use is the subordinate concept of the principle of equitable use as a general purpose. Ø The principle advocates the optimal utilization, distribution and benefit of shared natural resources.

pthe extended problems pa rule to ensure the equitable distribution of water resources. Ø the allocation method of the legal category is not equal to quantifying the water. Ø Take the Factor Approach.

the extended problems p Factor approach Ø Natural geographical factors Geography, hydrogeography, climate, etc. ----River length, watershed range, river runoff US Interstate Water allocation, Nile, India Ø Socioeconomic needs and existing utilization factors To meet the needs of production and life ----Irrigation, industrial water, etc. Ø Water efficiency, river health, etc.

the extended problems p No decisive factor, no one-way consideration p Compared with water production, water demand has more applicability. p River health and ecological water use is within the concept of the principle.

Thank you for your attention! Zheng Chenjun zhengchenjun@whu. edu. cn