Resource Scarcity and Transnational Water Conflicts: A Theoretical Re-examination of Hydropolitics

Global Journal of Peace and Conflict Studies | Vol. 5, No. 8, August 2014 | pp. 388–396

DOI: 10.46882/2014/GJPCS/000065

Article Type: Review Paper

Title: Resource Scarcity and Transnational Water Conflicts: A Theoretical Re-examination of Hydropolitics

Names of Authors: Amina El-Sayed¹, Ekuam Ekitala²

Authors’ Affiliations: ¹Department of Political Science, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt; ²Institute for Climate Change and Adaptation, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya

Abstract: Abstract: The nexus between environmental degradation, hydropolitics, and transboundary water governance remains a contentious arena in international relations. This review paper critically re-examines the theoretical frameworks underlying transboundary water conflicts, focusing specifically on the structural dynamics of shared river basins. By synthesizing literature from hydro-hegemony theories and environmental security paradigms published between 2000 and 2013, this paper maps how upstream infrastructure developments intersect with downstream existential anxieties. The analysis reveals that traditional neo-Malthusian scarcity models fail to fully capture the complex, state-led diplomatic maneuvers that define contemporary hydro-relations. Instead, water conflicts are driven more by institutional asymmetric power relations and historical legal treaties than by physical water shortages alone. The synthesis shows that institutional resilience indicators have a strong inverse correlation with treaty non-compliance rates across regional water basins worldwide. The paper underscores the urgent need for a shift from zero-sum security frameworks to benefit-sharing cooperative mechanisms. Ultimately, this review establishes an integrated theoretical matrix combining environmental diplomacy with human security indicators to guide future empirical research on water resource disputes.

Keywords: Water Governance, Hydro-hegemony, Hydropolitics, Resource Scarcity, Environmental Security, Transboundary Disputes

Manuscript Timeline: Received: March 20, 2014; Revised: May 18, 2014; Accepted: June 22, 2014; Published: August 14, 2014

Citation: El-Sayed, A., & Ekitala, E. (2014). Resource Scarcity and Transnational Water Conflicts: A Theoretical Re-examination of Hydropolitics. Global Journal of Peace and Conflict Studies, 5(8), 388–396. DOI: 10.46882/2014/GJPCS/000065

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