The Missing Link: Gender in Water Conflict and Cooperation

Foman Forough, Women in Water Diplomacy Network (Afghanistan)

Gender is often the missing link in building peace around shared water. Women bear the heaviest burdens of water scarcity and conflict, often walking long distances to secure water and facing heightened risks of violence, yet remain excluded from formal decision-making. At the same time, evidence shows that when women participate as negotiators, mediators, or community leaders, water projects and agreements are more effective, equitable, and sustainable. Examples range from women mediating local water disputes in Yemen to regional initiatives like the Women in Water Diplomacy Network in the Nile and Central Asia, which are shifting dialogues from competition to collaboration. This presentation explores women’s dual roles as vulnerable water users and powerful peacebuilders, illustrating how gender inclusion strengthens resilience and cooperation. To move beyond conflict, integrating women’s perspectives into water governance is a matter of justice and a practical strategy for achieving durable water peace.