Water governance refers to the ways in which power over water is organised, shared and negotiated in society. Governance emerges from interactions between the state, business and civil society actors at multiple scales and across borders

Because water is so fundamental to (all) life and livelihoods, it matters how water is governed. Great inequalities can exist in the ways that water is governed, resulting in some groups having far greater access to water resources than others.

Negotiations and decisions about water-related policies, institutions and practices are more inclusive, informed and accountable, and capable of addressing trans-boundary water resources.

WLE Greater Mekong’s Water Governance Projects seek explore regional understandings of what ‘good’ and ‘bad’ water governance are. They contribute to constructive engagement in water governance arenas through promotion of inclusive, deliberative processes that emphasise different perspectives, critical analysis, learning and institution-building whilst respecting rights, accounting for risks, acknowledging responsibilities and fairly distributing benefits.