Advanced Introduction to International Water Law: (Elgar Advanced Introductions series)

Elgar Advanced Introductions are stimulating and thoughtful introductions to major fields in the social sciences, business and law, expertly written by the world’s leading scholars. Designed to be accessible yet rigorous, they offer concise and lucid surveys of the substantive policy issues associated with discrete subject areas. This Advanced Introduction to International Water Law provides an overview of the key international rules, principles and institutions involved in the use and protection of shared international freshwater resources. Incisive and comprehensive, this book explores the core principles and key developments in international water law. Chapters examine the emergence of the ecosystem approach to transboundary water management; the phenomenon of convergence, by which international water law borrows from (and contributes to) other fields of international law; and the emergence of the UN Sustainable Development Goals as a global driver for implementation of a universally accepted sustainable development framework for shared international water resources. Key Features: Summarises established practices in the field of transboundary water cooperation Deftly explores the evolving objectives of international water law and the key drivers affecting these changes Highlights procedural engagement and institutional cooperation as an integral requirement of international water law Examines the necessity of related fields of international law when managing shared international water resources This authoritative Advanced Introduction will be a crucial read for legal scholars and students working in the fields of international water; environmental, climate and natural resources law; environmental politics; international relations; water resources management and development studies. It will also benefit governmental and intergovernmental officials employed by relevant national ministries and international organisations.

About the Author :
Owen McIntyre, School of Law & Environmental Research Institute, University College Cork, Ireland

Review :
‘McIntyre’s book seeks to fill the gap between the very large and detailed international water law texts and the examinations of specific agreements or instruments that have likewise proliferated. He writes for those who have some exposure to water law and policy, but who need a clear framework to facilitate their understanding of international water law. [...] McIntyre’s book achieves its goal admirably.’ ‘Owen McIntyre's book provides a detailed analysis of the evolution of international water law over the past decades, illuminating the complexities surrounding the management and protection of water resources. It represents a valuable guide for academics and practitioners interested in international water law and the sustainable governance of shared natural resources.’ ‘By providing an artful and comprehensive introduction to an area of international law that is only likely to become more critical in the years to come, Advanced Introduction to International Water Law is a valuable contribution. Professor Owen McIntyre, a leading authority in this area, is to be commended for providing such an accessible account of this fast-evolving area of international law.’ ‘In his typical eloquent style Professor McIntyre provides an accessible introduction to international water law. The book presents the latest trends in this field and explores the important questions of equity, fragmentation and convergence. For anyone interested in international water law and how it fits into the broader development context and contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals, this is the book to read.’