Water Wars
‘Water is the driving force of all Nature.’ -Leonardo Da Vinci
Water is the single most important resource here on Earth. It has elevated societies and ruined empires, and without it, life itself becomes unimaginable. Despite its intrinsic value, it is often overlooked and underrated as a strategic resource. However, this looks set to change.
Climate change, population growth, and a rise in global temperature is increasing the pressure on water resources all around the world. From the Himalayas to the Andes mountains, nations and companies are starting to realise the strategic importance of water, as a potential power source and as a necessary key to survival.
Water scarcity has already spurred conflicts around the world, many of which remain seriously underreported. As a response, SDAFA is proud to announce Water Wars, a series of articles highlighting water-based conflicts worldwide. With this series, we will attempt to answer the following question: Will water be the driving force of all conflict?
Seven years since Russia's illegal annexation, Crimea is facing land degradation, salinification and possible desertification as water shortages increase.
Latin America, with its luscious rainforests and huge rivers, is often conceptualised as the antithesis of water scarcity. Yet, the region is seeing political tensions rise as Climate Change, Urbanisation, bad government policies, and increasing demand put a strain on the region’s water resources.
Water is becoming a strategic asset in the Yemeni Civil War. The groups that control it can increase their power and bolster their legitimacy in the arid war-torn country.
Ethiopia's dam project could help regional actors tackle issues brought about by water scarcity, shifting demographics, and climate change. Instead, the dam is exacerbating regional competition for hydro-hegemony.
Water scarcity on the Indus and its tributaries is undermining the fragile peace in Kashmir & Jammu, threatening to upend the 60-year-old Indus Water Treaty and throw Pakistan and India into renewed conflict.