Comparative study of the role of trans-boundary rivers in relations of countries: The case of nile and euphrates

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Thesis Type: Postgraduate

Institution Of The Thesis: Hacettepe Üniversitesi, Sosyal Bilimler Enstitüsü, Uluslararası ilişkiler A.B.D., Turkey

Approval Date: 2014

Thesis Language: English

Student: SEULAİMAN HUSSEN

Principal Supervisor (For Co-Supervisor Theses): ITIR İMER

Open Archive Collection: AVESIS Open Access Collection

Abstract:

Nile and Euphrates rivers have significant importance in the history of mankind. Both rivers have seen the rise of ancient civilizations and the early development of irrigation practices. This research presents a comparative analysis of the role of trans-boundary rivers in the countries' relations taking the cases of growing conflicts between Egypt and Ethiopia over the Nile River, and Turkey and Syria over the Euphrates. The study aimed to learn the positions, agreements, challenges and diplomatic breakthroughs on the Nile between Ethiopia and Egypt; and to look into the role of Nile and Euphrates rivers from a comparative perspective and how they affected the Ethio-Egypt and Turko-Syria relations respectively. It also aimed at predicting the likely outcomes and geopolitical repercussions that could emerge from the current impasse over the Nile and draw lessons that could contribute the understanding and peaceful settlement of the dispute between Ethiopia and Egypt. This study assesses the experiences of Turkey and Syria, and it finds helpful that water scarcity could be addressed in cooperation than competition. It also claims that water-based conflicts can be managed through institutional framework, democratic engagement among the conflicting nations, a well- managed regional power struggle, and avoided diplomatic challenges associated with historical misperceptions. Keywords: Trans-boundary Rivers, Riparian Countries, Water allocations,Comparative Perspective, Diplomatic Breakthrough.