Law, Power, and Decolonization in Transboundary Water Conflict and Cooperation

Date & Time
Jun 19, 2026 | 14.00 - 15.30

Participants
Melissa McCracken, The Fletcher School at Tufts University (United States)
Henry Pitts, Transboundary Freshwater Diplomacy Database (United States)
Alexandra Turgul, Oregon State University (United States)
Melissa McCracken, Tufts University (United States)

This panel invites discussion around how transboundary water conflict and cooperation are shaped by the law, power dynamics, and decolonization efforts. Case studies from around the globe will explore the advantages and limitations of international freshwater institutions in advancing effective cooperation and how non-state actors mobilize to challenge unequitable water governance and advance their visions for water resources in the absence of participation in formal decision-making processes. Presentations include “The Role of Non-State Actors in Shaping Water Conflict and Cooperation in the Middle East” by Alexandra Turgul, “The Context and Design of Legal and Institutional Arrangements in Conflict and Cooperation over Transboundary Waters “ by Melissa McCracken, and “Facilitating Multiple Ways of Knowing in the Chewaucan Basin” by Henry Pitts. Presenters: Alexandra Turgul, Oregon State University, USA; Melissa McCracken, Tufts University, USA; Henry Pitts, Oregon State University, USA (open to others joining the panel) Chair: TBD

The Context and Design of Legal and Institutional Arrangements in Conflict and Cooperation over Transboundary Waters

Melissa McCracken, Tufts University (United States)

The Role of Non-State Actors in Shaping Water Conflict and Cooperation in the Middle East

Alexandra Turgul, Oregon State University (United States)

Facilitating Multiple Ways of Knowing in the Chewaucan Basin.

Henry Pitts