Development and Codification of International Law on Non-Navigational Uses of International Watercourses

Abstract

Without a universal treaty on shared water resources, it is very difficult to control and regulate these resources. Due to the absence of any universal treaty to regulate and protect international watercourses, four varying but to some extent conflicting theories and various principles existed. The paper analyses these theories and principles on the ground of legality. Furthermore, the extensive work of non-governmental organizations such as IIL, ILA and the work of ILC to develop and codify international law for the uses of international waterways other than navigation have been analyzed. Similarities and differences among them have also been discussed. Analytical approach has been adopted in presentation of arguments.