Why in news?
Bangladesh became the first South Asian country to accede to the Convention on the Protection and Use of Transboundary Watercourses and International Lakes, commonly known as the UN Water Convention. The decision aims to strengthen cooperation in managing shared rivers and lakes with neighbouring countries and to improve water security in a region facing climate and population pressures.
Background
The Water Convention was adopted in Helsinki in 1992 under the aegis of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE). It entered into force in 1996 and was originally intended for European and North American countries. A 2016 amendment opened it to all UN member states, recognising that transboundary waters require global cooperation. The convention obliges parties to prevent, control and reduce pollution, use shared waters equitably and exchange information. Countries entering the convention are encouraged to sign specific bilateral or regional agreements to implement its principles.
Key provisions
- Equitable and reasonable use: Signatories must ensure that activities in their territory do not cause significant harm to other riparian states and that water is shared based on population, ecology and economic needs.
- Pollution prevention: Parties agree to set emission limits, develop national water policies and monitor water quality to protect ecosystems and human health.
- Cooperation and joint bodies: The convention encourages the establishment of river basin organisations and joint commissions to resolve disputes and implement projects.
- Public participation: It recognises the role of stakeholders, including civil society and indigenous communities, in decision‑making about water resources.
Why Bangladesh’s accession matters
- Shared rivers: Bangladesh sits downstream on major rivers like the Ganga, Brahmaputra and Meghna that originate in India, China and Bhutan. Joining the convention signals its intent to engage constructively in transboundary water governance.
- Climate resilience: The country faces floods, droughts and salinity intrusion exacerbated by climate change. International cooperation can facilitate data sharing and joint adaptation measures.
- Regional example: As the first South Asian party, Bangladesh’s move may encourage neighbouring countries, including India and Nepal, to consider membership and adopt integrated water management practices.