Do you think the scarcity (or excess) of water will lead to conflict - Essay Example

Implications of Water Scar Tensions among developing countries surface owing to the problems related to water scar . The increasing demand for water is no longer viable (Asser) and this poses a threat in health, life, and truce. Some have privatized water distribution due to incompetence by the government, making it less accessible to the impoverished population. Others argue over water rights as what is currently heard of about some territories in Africa, Israel and Jordan, India and Pakistan, and across the Himalayas (Polgreen and Tevernise).

Hydrologists say joint solutions need to be found, because water requirements are interdependent and water resources cross political boundaries (Asser), but in view of the situation, it seems that conflict is inevitable. According to Ohlsson, water scarcity is brought about by two key issues: natural resource scarcity, and the approaches used to counter the former (qtd in Molen and Hildering 134). The law of nature cannot be put off, and many resort to construction of water reservoirs to address the impending, or shall we say, an already existing adversity.

Unfortunately, the disproportionate allocation, movement, and storage of water, after a while, results in extreme phenomena such as floods and droughts (Northwest River Forecast Center); thus anyone of rational thinking will be indecisive about any act of water exploitation. It is not possible for a country to constrain the flow of water within its boundary without endangering itself and the others dependent on it. Feitelson sees the potential of a co-operation scenario, of shared rights and management (qtd in Molen and Hildering 139).

Water is indispensable for survival, and reckless measures will only leave both parties empty handed. Experts recommend a number of ways to address water scarcity, to include enhanced conservation and reprocessing (Asser). Moreover, the United Nations relentlessly campaign for amity; and although conflicts may ensue on account of significant differences in culture and ideals, the dire need for water will not make it last long. Works CitedAsser, Martin. Obstacles to Arab-Israeli Peace: Water. BBC News Middle East, 28 Sep. 2010. Web. 24 Sep. 2011.

Molen, van der Irna, and Hildering, Antoinette. Water: Cause for Conflict or Co-operation? ISYP Journal on Science and World Affairs, Vol. 1, No. 2, 2005 133-143. Print.Northwest River Forecast Center. Description of the Hydrologic Cycle, 2011. Web. 24 Sept. 2011.Polgreen, Lydia, and Tavernise, Sabrina. Water Dispute Increase Pakistan-India Tension. The New York Times Asia Pacific. 20 Jul. 2010. Web. 24 Sep. 2011.