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Water governance

Good water governance is essential for climate adaptation in small island states like Curaçao, Aruba, and St. Martin, where freshwater is limited and climate change increases pressure on water systems. It means managing water fairly and efficiently by involving governments, communities, and other stakeholders in decision-making. This includes monitoring water sources, sharing data openly, and clearly defining who is responsible for what. It also involves setting rules for water use, such as agreements on how water is shared during droughts. In these islands, good governance helps prevent overuse, ensures everyone has access to clean water, and builds trust among users. By aligning policies across sectors and scales—from national to local—it supports long-term resilience against climate risks like droughts and floods. International guidelines, such as those from the OECD, offer practical steps to make water governance more inclusive, transparent, and sustainable.

Feasibility & Local Applicability

Local challenges may stem from limited resources, fragmented policies, and weak coordination among stakeholders. Small island states may struggle with outdated infrastructure, inconsistent data collection, and lack of technical capacity to monitor and manage water systems effectively. Political and institutional barriers can also hinder collaboration between national and local authorities. Additionally, public trust may be low if decision-making is not transparent or inclusive.  

Co-benefits

Good water governance benefits both people and nature. It helps ensure fair access to clean water and prepares communities for times of scarcity. It also protects ecosystems like wetlands, forests, and rivers by keeping natural water cycles healthy. This supports biodiversity and helps prevent these areas from drying out. 

Equity & Vulnerability Considerations

Good water governance must include everyone—especially local communities and civil society groups. These groups should have a real say in decisions and help manage and protect water resources. Raising awareness and educating people about water issues helps them take action and speak up for fair and sustainable water use. Access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene is a basic human right and key to health and equality. Yet, many vulnerable and marginalized groups still face barriers. To make water governance fair, we need to listen to underrepresented voices, use local and traditional knowledge, build strong partnerships, and improve institutions. Understanding who is most at risk helps guide better decisions.

Costs

Low – High | Costs of water governance depend on the interventions needed. Interventions can include infrastructure upgrades, improving operational efficiency of water utilities, or strengthening institutions through capacity building and improving stakeholder coordination. Water governance programs are often funded through international cooperation. 

Case-studies & Examples

 Literature

Adaptation Options Overzicht