Asia Times opinion article reports insights from new research in Nepal
The construction of large dams for hydropower occupies a central place in the development strategies of many countries, offering a pathway to climate-smart economic growth. But such schemes also remain controversial because of the often huge capital costs as well as the environmental and social impacts. To help address these concerns, the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) conducts research in major river basins across the developing world. The results help decision makers handle complex tradeoffs in ways that are both scientifically sound and fair for people and the environment.
Among our most recent investigations is a study carried out along the Karnali River in Western Nepal. On the occasion of the World Day of Social Justice (February 20), Asia Times has just published an opinion article by IWMI research group leader Diana Suhardiman, in which she shares insights from research aimed at helping Nepal get the process right and “become a beacon for progressive hydropower development, rather than fall into . . . well-trodden traps suffered by other countries in South and Southeast Asia.”
Read the full version of the Asia Times opinion article.
Throughout 2019, IWMI will give special attention to social inclusion in water management – reflecting the themes of this year’s World Water Day and Stockholm World Water Week. But, in fact, we have been reporting on work that pertains to this theme for a long time. See below a sampling of recent coverage.
Also, stay tuned for our forthcoming “Voicing Water Visions” campaign, which we will launch in March.
Media coverage
- TheConversation: Food security in Africa depends on rethinking outdated water law
- TheTelegraph: Call to overhaul laws as study reveals millions of African farmers use water illegally
- BBC Africapodcast (begins at 43:00)
- Mail & Guardian: Call to decolonise water laws
Population pressure and increasing water competition in a changing climate require us to take stock of the availability and use of water across scales. Water availability not only influences farmers’ commercial prospects but also irrigation-related enterprises and agri-businesses. Greater water scarcity could jeopardize irrigation and agricultural markets while excessive water use can lead to declining ecosystems, water quality and soil health. IWMI advises development partners and the public and private sectors on all aspects of water resource availability and use through a variety of advanced modeling and remote-sensing products and tools, including 
The ability of farmers to engage in or expand irrigation depends on the prevailing socioeconomic, ecological and political contexts, which are often complex, non-linear and changeable. Overcoming systemic barriers to farmer-led irrigation development while taking advantage of existing opportunities 
A lack of affordable credit, particularly for women and resource-poor farmers, is one of the main barriers to expanding farmer-led irrigation in low- and middle-income countries. But 
Scaling farmer-led irrigation requires strengthening human capacity and knowledge exchange among all actors and stakeholders involved. IWMI takes an action research approach, working with national and international research institutions, governments, extension agents and public and private organizations to co-develop the scaling ecosystem and strengthen capacity to drive scaling networks and collective action. We support the