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Cooperation and Conflict Over International Water Resources
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:48:48
Abstract
This seminar focuses on the technical, economic, and political challenges of dealing with water allocation and pollution problems in large international river systems. It examines ways and means through which such challenges are addressed, and when and why international efforts in this respect succeed or fail.
Objective
Ability to (1) understand the causes and consequences of water scarcity and water pollution problems in large international river systems; (2) understand ways and means of addressing such water challenges; and (3) analyse when and why international efforts in this respect succeed or fail.
Content
Based on lectures and discussion of scientific papers and reports, students acquire basic knowledge on contentious issues in managing international water resources, on the determinants of cooperation and conflict over international water issues, and on ways and means of mitigating conflict and promoting cooperation. Students will then, in small teams coached by the instructors, carry out research on a case of their choice (i.e. an international river basin where riparian countries are trying to find solutions to water allocation and/or water quality problems associated with a large dam project). They will write a brief paper and present their findings towards the end of the semester.
Resources
Lecture Notes
Slides and reading materials will be distributed electronically.
Literature
The UN World Water Development Reports provide a broad overview of the topic: http://www.unesco.org/new/en/natural-sciences/environment/water/wwap/
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- MSC , DR
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Registration & Places
- Max Places
- 40
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| seminar | Cooperation and Conflict Over International Water Resources |
|
2 h weekly |
Offered In
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Minor in Global Change and Sustainability (This minor will only be offered in the academic year 21/22. As of the academic year 22/23, the minor can no longer be chosen. The course units offered in the minor can still be taken as electives.)
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Electives (The students are free to choose individually from the entire course offer of ETH Zürich and the universities of Zürich and Bern.)
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Doctoral Department of Environmental Sciences (More Information at: )
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