Situation analysis of transboundary wastewater management - The case of Israel / Palestine borders

Abstract

Environmental problems between countries can have deep historical roots and consequences for several reasons. Most environmental transboundary problems are yet to be resolved.Solutions that were developed responded to the forcesof political, media, and localNon-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), and did not respond to the needs or reality on the ground. This paperfocuses on transboundary wastewater management between Israel and Palestine. Themeasures undertaken by Israel, thestronger party,and the associated effects on solvingthe transboundarypollution issues are presented. Of equal importance, proceduresfollowed by the weaker party,Palestine, to resolve the environmental problems are discussed. The responsibility ofthe donor countries and localNGOsin the conflict is also addressed. Results obtained revealed that the current bi-national agreement does not achieveenvironmental justiceand protection. The stronger party applies stringent standards and guidelines, which go abovethe technicaland financialcapacity of the weaker party to achieve sustainable sanitation facilities within its region. A regional cooperative framework with clear coordination mechanism considering the international experience on transboundary management of wastewater and engagement of NGOs and donor countries is needed