What Causes Water Conflict?

Nov 8, 2024 | David Michel
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Mexican farmers set fire to government buildings, ambushed soldiers, took politicians hostage, and seized control of La Boquilla dam to prevent water from being diverted from their drought-parched fields and funneled away to the United States. “This is a war to survive . . . to feed my family,” affirmed a protest leader. National Guard troops opened fire, killing one. In western France, saboteurs uprooted underground water pipes and activists armed with improvised explosives repeatedly battled police. Hundreds have been injured in massive demonstrations opposing irrigation projects said to favor industrial producers over small farmers. In Cameroon, clashes pitting Musgum fisher communities against ethnic Arab Choa herders over access to water points left dozens dead. Thousands of refugees have fled across the Chari River into neighboring Chad.

Water-related conflicts are increasing worldwide. Why are water tensions growing? What forms do emerging water conflicts take? And how can they be prevented?