Towards a typology of water-related conflicts in the urban environment

Rapid urban population growth is occurring, particularly in developing countries, and has led to problems of providing adequate water supply and sanitation. Two dominant policy recommendations have been put forward - raise fees to existing users or increase the role of the private sector in the provision of water and sanitation services. A number of civil disturbances and riots have occurred in response to such proposals. More pragmatic policy initiatives are required to prevent and solve water-related conflicts, as well as new institutional structures to better handle competing and conflicting water demands.