Water governance and political economy
IWMI leads the development of understanding around water governance and the influence of political economy. Researchers analyze cooperative and multi-level water governance, contributing to effective water governance and reforms. They also examine policy, legal and institutional frameworks; political economy; institutions and models for transboundary cooperation and water diplomacy; and water-food policy coherence and effective policy instruments.
IWMI aims to explore the intersection of water management, policy, politics and economics to better understand the complex dynamics that influence decision-making processes related to water resources. IWMI’s research and programs:
- Investigate the structures and processes of water governance across different scales, including within countries, river basins and other statutory bodies.
- Advocate for policy coherence to align policies and maximize their combined impact on achieving development goals.
- Examine adaptive governance strategies that enhance resilience to climate-related water challenges.
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Latest publications on this topic
Report
Next generation monitoring of surface waTer fRom space (TRACE): monitoring small waterbodies for integrated storage management
International Water Management Institute | February 17th, 2026
Book Chapter
Chapter 7 – Optimizing water productivity: challenges and opportunities in smallholder irrigation schemes—a case study from South Africa
Elsevier | February 17th, 2026
Book Chapter
Chapter 6 – The critical role of water in facilitating agroecology transitions in semiarid regions of sub-Saharan Africa
Elsevier | February 17th, 2026