Towards sustainable development in the water sector: a perspective from Palestine

The water sector in Palestine suffers from great damage and serious institutional fragmentation. The deterioration in the water services and the inadequate coverage at the different levels are two major weaknesses in the sector. Adding to that, the responsibilities are scattered among relevant institutions and unclear. Aiming at facing the challenges and obstacles, and in order to approach the achievement of sustainable development in the water sector, the Palestinian Authority (PA) had to take certain measures and actions. The elements of a "National Water Policy" have been adopted that aim at sustaining the resource. However, a set of measures and regulations in line with the policies still has to be issued and enforced. A central independent authority, the Palestinian Authority, was established in order to execute the National Water Policy. The main aims of this authority as a regulator will be represented. This fairly new approach for managing water resources in Palestine is time consuming and requires a big change in the national culture. Public awareness and stakeholder participation are vital strategies to create incentives for public commitment and involvement.