Water Governance under Conflict: Institutional and Operational Constraints in the Gaza Strip
Publisher: Water International
Author(s): Samer Abuzerr and Basem Younes Abu Jray
Date: 2026
Topics: Governance, Renewable Resources
Countries: Israel, Palestine
Water governance in the Gaza Strip is severely constrained by protracted conflict, infrastructure destruction and institutional erosion. This qualitative study examines governance dynamics and service delivery challenges. Findings show a shift from structured management to an emergency-driven, fragmented system with weak coordination and reduced regulatory capacity. Extensive infrastructure damage, electricity shortages, and restricted access to repair materials have led to daily service interruptions and reliance on informal water sources. A persistent reconstruction–destruction cycle limits system recovery. Despite this, stakeholders identify opportunities for improved coordination, capacity building and digital monitoring within crisis-adapted governance frameworks.