The United Nations Watercourses Convention Ten Years Later: Why Has its Entry into Force Proven Difficult?

Abstract

Abstract After about 27 years of extensive preparatory work and formal and informal deliberations, the United Nations General Assembly adopted on May 21, 1997, by a large majority, the Convention on the Law of the Non-Navigational Uses of International Watercourses. The adoption of the Convention was hailed as a major breakthrough and as an historical moment in the evolution of international water law. However, ten years after its adoption, the Convention has not yet entered into force. This article reviews the history, basic features and status of the Convention, analyzes the reasons for the reluctance of states to become parties to it, and examines its role and prospects. Kay words: Dispute settlementequitable and reasonable utilizationInternational Law Commissionregional economic integration organizationWatercourses Convention