Title: The Jordan River basin: potential initial routes to a cooperative process amongst the riparians

Authors: David J.H. Phillips; John S. Murray

Addresses: Phillips Robinson and Associates, P.O. Box 90488, Klein Windhoek, Namibia ' CMPartners, LLC, 3877 W. Geode Court, Tucson, AZ 85745, USA

Abstract: Several types of solutions have been offered to resolve the conflicts and inequality inherent in the current allocation regime for fresh water in the Jordan River basin. In several previous manuscripts a positive-sum outcome was described for fresh water development and use by the five riparians of the Jordan River basin. The mechanism as proposed would allow all parties to receive enhanced fresh water resources concurrently, through the acceptance of equitable allocations; the development of 'new water'; and a more efficient use of the existing water supplies. This approach would provide significant economic benefits for all of the riparians. However, it has not been possible to date to implement the positive-sum outcome, nor to generate any momentum towards consistent cooperation on water issues among the riparians. This manuscript focuses on the process for initiating discussions among the five parties that could enhance their own fresh water resources, and build confidence step by step for introducing cooperative measures over time.

Keywords: Jordan River; trans-boundary waters; positive-sum outcome; economic development; conflict resolution; cooperation; Johnston Plan; water allocation; fresh water resources; riparians.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSSOC.2014.066773

International Journal of Sustainable Society, 2014 Vol.6 No.4, pp.354 - 375

Published online: 14 Jan 2015 *

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