CLIMATE CHANGE, WATER AND SOCIETY IN THE MENA REGION: A LEGAL AND POLICY PERSPECTIVE

Foluke Olamiposi Akinmoladun, American University in Cairo
Christine Eleanor Canderson, American University in Cairo

Abstract

ABSTRACT The MENA Region, having a history of both severe climate change as well as drought, now confronts the challenges of a new period of climate change and drought. Its international water law treaty regimes are underdeveloped and frequently violated, resulting in conflict, increasing the instability and insecurity of the region. The countries of the region also have underdeveloped and frequently violated internal legal regimes. These problematic constructs are now compounded by a crisis in global agricultural trade (virtual water). With the cultural strength of Islamic water and environmental principles, the region has potential for organization and education. The development of an alliance system which enforces the international law principles of ‘equitable use’ and ‘no significant harm’ could prevent conflict and foster development.