From scarcity to security : averting a water crisis in the Middle East and North Africa

This booklet outlines a strategy to avert the looming water crisis in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region which, because of its lack of natural freshwater supplies, is considered the driest region in the world. Water scarcity results in poor economic growth and, consequently, limited resources to improve water availability, thus creating a vicious circle and downward spiral which forecasts disaster for MENA. The strategy outlined in this booklet presents a way of breaking the vicious circle. It offers prospects for a virtuous spiral whereby "Water for Growth" policies today can lay the foundation for "Growth for Water" policies tomorrow. The strategy proposes priority initiatives to be undertaken by governments, in partnership with domestic users and external sources of financial and technical support. They involve: mobilizing country efforts through public awareness campaigns and community participation; integrating water resources management based on a long-term national strategy which emphasize water quality standards, water conservation and cost recovery policies; using water more efficiently and reducing pollution; seeking alternative sources of water; promoting regional and international partnerships including regional and river basin planning, data collection and exchange, institutional networks, innovative water development initiatives. Contains MENA Water Action Plan.