Research Interests:
This report argues that an increase in integrity levels is instrumental to the progressive, full realisation of the human right to water. The relationship between the human right to water and integrity will be analysed by examining... more
This report argues that an increase in integrity levels is instrumental to the progressive, full
realisation of the human right to water. The relationship between the human right to water and
integrity will be analysed by examining Community Water Boards (CWBs) in Central America. A CWB
is a social, not-for-profit structure established under a framework which allows it to capture, treat
and distribute water to the community. CWBs’ principles include environmental protection and
conservation, social participation, solidarity, transparency, accountability, mutual trust and social
commitment. Their core mission is to ensure that safe water reaches the places where it is needed
most, and that the immediate surroundings are environmentally healthy and protected.
CWBs’ legitimisation at local level is derived from high standards of integrity, transparency and
accountability toward the community, and their role therefore goes beyond water supply and
environmental conservation. Indeed, successful CWBs use a model that indirectly fosters social
justice and economic development. In disadvantaged areas, CWBs are the primary agent
implementing the human right to water.
Given that CWBs exemplify the most recent, accepted developmental models promoting
sustainability, inclusion, equity and human rights, one would expect them to be considered a key ally
of the state and, as such, to be protected, recognised and supported. However, more often than not,
CWBs’ role, function and mandate are weakened by poor recognition at national level, unclear
regulation, insufficient training and support, and (again at national level) low levels of integrity.
This report supports the claim that integrity at all levels and across sectors is both a tool and an
objective of the full implementation of the human right to water, and that the approach and model
adopted by CWBs should be carefully studied, protected and supported by national and international
actors.
realisation of the human right to water. The relationship between the human right to water and
integrity will be analysed by examining Community Water Boards (CWBs) in Central America. A CWB
is a social, not-for-profit structure established under a framework which allows it to capture, treat
and distribute water to the community. CWBs’ principles include environmental protection and
conservation, social participation, solidarity, transparency, accountability, mutual trust and social
commitment. Their core mission is to ensure that safe water reaches the places where it is needed
most, and that the immediate surroundings are environmentally healthy and protected.
CWBs’ legitimisation at local level is derived from high standards of integrity, transparency and
accountability toward the community, and their role therefore goes beyond water supply and
environmental conservation. Indeed, successful CWBs use a model that indirectly fosters social
justice and economic development. In disadvantaged areas, CWBs are the primary agent
implementing the human right to water.
Given that CWBs exemplify the most recent, accepted developmental models promoting
sustainability, inclusion, equity and human rights, one would expect them to be considered a key ally
of the state and, as such, to be protected, recognised and supported. However, more often than not,
CWBs’ role, function and mandate are weakened by poor recognition at national level, unclear
regulation, insufficient training and support, and (again at national level) low levels of integrity.
This report supports the claim that integrity at all levels and across sectors is both a tool and an
objective of the full implementation of the human right to water, and that the approach and model
adopted by CWBs should be carefully studied, protected and supported by national and international
actors.