Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

• Elham Aminzadeh ¹
• Mersedeh Mazloumi ²
• Amirsaed Vakil ³

¹ Professor, Public International Law, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran

² Ph.D Student, Public International Law, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran

³ Assistant Professor, Public International Law, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

Introduction

In recent years, water resources have become increasingly important due to economic growth and population expansion. Effective management of these resources, along with environmental conservation, requires a multilateral approach involving countries and other international actors. This challenge becomes even more complex when water sources are shared across borders, as water is a limited resource that must be distributed fairly among neighboring countries. Germany, along with other European countries, has gained recognition for its effective management of shared water resources, environmental protection efforts, and hydropower development at both national and transnational levels. The German solutions offer valuable insights into addressing the challenges of water distribution among neighboring countries and can be applied in other regions worldwide. The solution adopted by Germany is reflected in its legal documents and practical procedures, emphasizing key principles such as equitable and reasonable use, assessment of each country’s current and future water needs, prevention of harm to others, and the preservation of shared water reserves. Furthermore, the approach advocates for international cooperation to maximize the benefits of water resources for the broader global community.

Literature Review

Previous discussions on the topic focused on the general study of transboundary waters, without examining the legal documents and judicial procedures particular to the German context. By addressing issues related to shared waters within the German legal system, this article can make a valuable contribution to legal scholarship.

Materials and Methods

The present study first examined Germany’s legal documents related to environmental regulations. Then it focused on the country’s practical procedure in the exploitation of shared waterways. In the first section, the management of shared water resources was analyzed from both national and international perspectives by distinguishing between Germany’s legal documents at these two levels. In this respect, the national legal documents were explored, particularly its alignment with higher-level legal instruments such as the European Union Water Framework Directive. Then, international conventions that Germany has joined or taken action on were reviewed.

Results and Discussion

Germany’s strategy for managing water resources at both the national and international levels treats all water bodies as integral parts of the natural ecosystem, requiring integrated management. This approach ensures that water resources are used optimally and equitably—both in terms of quantity and quality—while also preserving reserves for the future. Maintaining water reserves helps reduce potential conflicts between countries that share or border these waterways. In addition, the establishment of joint commissions for managing shared water resources plays a crucial role in their preservation. Such collaborative efforts contribute to minimizing disputes and challenges among the countries bordering on waterways. The more effectively and fairly shared rivers are managed, the better water resources are preserved, ultimately reducing conflicts over shared waterways.

Conclusion

By analyzing Germany’s current practical procedure, the study revealed that one effective solution for resolving conflicts over the allocation of shared water resources is to define the responsibilities and rights of countries within a watershed. This ensures that while nations exploit the water within their territorial boundaries, they also adhere to key principles such as caution, preventive action, and compensation. Cooperation in managing shared water resources takes precedence over conflict resolution, as collaboration among watershed countries can significantly contribute to water resource management. Moreover, transparency plays a crucial role in preventing misunderstandings between countries. Ensuring access to information fosters mutual understanding among countries sharing a watershed, helping them reach a common ground.

Keywords

• German Water Law
• EU Water Framework Directive
• Shared Water
• Legal Documents
• Judicial Practice
• Executive Practice

Main Subjects

• International Law