The GEF has been investing in transboundary water cooperation for three decades, supporting the shared management of fresh and marine water resources that are rich in biodiversity and provide essential ecosystem services, but face numerous threats. Transboundary fresh and marine water resources are intricately linked to cooperation and, as such, can generate multiple benefits for ecosystems, people, and countries. However, conflicts associated with their use and management can also be the source of considerable environmental, economic, social, and political costs. GEF investments in transboundary water resource management are instrumental in ensuring that vicious cycles of water-related conflict are interrupted or mitigated and that virtuous cycles of water-related cooperation and associated GEBs and co-benefits are promoted.
This STAP information note summarizes recent GEF and non-GEF experience with transboundary water projects, develops a conceptual framework for assessing the linkage between transboundary water resources management and cooperation and conflict dynamics, and discusses the implication of the framework for GEF investments. It also suggests four areas of action to further strengthen GEF investments in international waters.
