Water management in developing countries : policy and priorities for EU development cooperation : communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament

Guide to the European Community's support to water resources management (WRM) in developing countries for achieving the main development goals: poverty reduction, sustainable economic and social development, and integration of developing countries into the global economy, set in the context of the higher profile gained by water on the international agenda. It highlights where and how policies surrounding water and development are integrated in EC's development priorities and emphasises the need to see WRM as a cross-sectoral issue to be mainstreamed within most development policies of the Community. It outlines a comprehensive and integrated approach that is valid for all aspects of WRM and for all users of water. Key message on policy orientation is to build strategies based on the overarching principles of integrated WRM. Highlighted key actions focus on water supply and sanitation, transboundary water management and cross-sectoral co-ordination and integration. A number of lines of action on global challenges are recommended.