International Water Law from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

Module 1: Introduction to international water law

With around two hundred and seventy-six (276) rivers and lakes and a large number of groundwater shared by two or more States, there is an increasing level of interest in the importance of international law in this area. This introductory module is designed to highlight how international regulation is fundamental to achieving a harmonious and peaceful management of these essential resources. It outlines the various issues and challenges related to the management and protection of water resources. Whilst emphasis is placed on the factors that can lead to conflict, the module will also show how water can be considered as an instrument of peace and cooperation among States. Within this context, the benefits of cooperation between States over transboundary freshwater are examined. We will also analyse the different uses linked to water resources and the relationships that exist between them. The module will be concluded by a quiz worth 15% of the final mark. You must have at least 80% of the answers correct to pass the module.

Module 2: The Evolution of the International Regulation on Fresh Water Resources

This module outlines the major milestones in the evolution of international freshwater regulation. It will present the scope and contribution of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Non-Navigational Uses of International Watercourses (1997 Convention) and the Convention on the Protection and Use of Transboundary Water and International Lakes of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) (1992 Convention). The role of international organizations, international academic societies and civil society in the development and promotion of these instruments will be highlighted. The unique nature of groundwater regulation is also addressed and we will look closely at the main features of the 2008 International Law Commission’s Draft articles on the Law of Transboundary Aquifers. We will also examine the best practice shown in the 2008 Convention on the Protection, Utilisation, Recharge and Monitoring of the Franco-Swiss Genevois Aquifer. The module will be concluded by a quiz worth 20% of the final mark. You must have at least 80% of the answers correct to pass the module.

Module 3: The Principles of the Law on Transboundary Water Resources I

This module presents the general principles governing how water is shared and we will also examine the rules associated with planned measures on transboundary waters. We will take a look at the theory behind the principle of equitable and reasonable use, the obligation to not cause significant harm and the principle of cooperation. The rules of notification, consultation and negotiation in the case of planned measures will be examined in detail. We will also focus how these principles interact with each other. The module will be concluded by a quiz worth 25% of the final mark. You must have at least 80% of the answers correct to pass the module.

The Principles of the Law on Transboundary Water Resources II

This module highlights how other bodies of norms such as international environmental law, human rights and the law of climate change have contributed to the protection of transboundary freshwaters. The module presents the main international conventions that deal with the environment and details the principles that apply to the management of shared water resources (such as prevention, precaution and the obligation to conduct an environmental impact study). We will examine new legal instruments that take into account these aspects of international freshwater law via the water charters (such as for the Senegal River, the Niger River Basin, the Lake Chad Basin). The module will be concluded by a quiz worth 25% of the final mark. You must have at least 80% of the answers correct to pass the module.

Module 5: Prevention and Resolution of Water-Related Disputes

This module presents the diplomatic and judicial mechanisms that exist for resolving water-related disputes. The essential role of basin organizations and commissions in the prevention and resolution of conflicts over water is also addressed. Finally, we examine the details of the decisions of international tribunals and courts about shared water resources and we assess their contribution to the development of international freshwater law. The module will be concluded by a quiz worth 20% of the final mark. You must have at least 80% of the answers correct to pass the module.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Examines international law's evolution in accommodating freshwater management's various facets

Provides key legal concepts for understanding and addressing the regulation of international water resources

Taught by the Geneva Water Hub and University of Geneva, who have a recognized standing in the field

Suitable for those new to the topic due to logical module progression

Modules can be taken in any order, catering to learners' diverse interests and needs

Reviews summary

Well-received: int'l water law

learners say this course is largely positive, with engaging assignments and knowledgeable instructors. The course earns praise for its comprehensive overview of international water law, its clear explanations of complex topics, and for its practical insights into dispute resolution and water management.

Explains complex topics in a clear and accessible way.

"This course really helps for all the legal field person specially for those who wish to build their career in ENVIRONMENTAL LAW not only at domestic but at also international level. This coarse will give you a basic overview of Laws and mechanisms to resolve trans-boundary water disputes."

"The learning material was not too complex and avoided getting into intricate details of the cases and principles discussed."

Provides a thorough examination of international water law.

"Excellent course, provides a comprehensive understanding of international water law, and the functions of river basin organizations"

"This course provides a comprehensive understanding of International Water Law and the need to protect and efficiently manage transboundary water sources."

Assignments help reinforce learning and assess understanding.

"The tests are fair and require you to think and read carefully. I am only disappointed that I cannot have more in depth discussions with the lecturers on the subject matter!"

"I really enjoyed this course! Very insightful and quite challenging, so you really have to focus."

Offers practical insights into dispute resolution and water management.

"It is an amazing course, a fascinating subject, of a crucial importance in particular within the current challenges we Humans have to manage - RE sustainability and climate change and Renewable Energy!!!"

Instructors are experts in the field and provide insightful commentary.

"Excellent course.Los temas abordados fueron analizados con profundidad y seriedad metodológica."

"The professors/Professeures sont tous et toutes excellents/excellentes!!!"

Course is taught in French with English subtitles, which can be a barrier for some learners.

"The video is in French with English captions. I am so disappointed."

"This course was awful. It totally in french by the way with just english subtiltes"

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in International Water Law with these activities:

Assist with a local water conservation or watershed management project

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Gain hands-on experience in applying water management principles and contribute to environmental stewardship.

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Identify local organizations or agencies involved in water conservation or watershed management.
Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
Attend training or orientation sessions to learn about the project and safety protocols.
Participate in activities such as water quality monitoring, habitat restoration, or educational outreach.

Connect with professionals working in the field of international water law

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Establish relationships with experts who can provide guidance, support, and insights into the field.

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Identify potential mentors through professional organizations or online platforms such as LinkedIn.
Reach out to your target mentors and express your interest in connecting.
Schedule introductory calls or meetings to get to know each other and discuss your career goals.

Read 'The Law of Transboundary Water Resources' by Salman M.A. Salman

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Gain a comprehensive understanding of the legal framework governing transboundary water resources.

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Purchase or borrow a copy of the book.
Read and take notes on the introductory chapters, which provide an overview of the subject.
Focus on the chapters that cover the principles of water law, dispute resolution mechanisms, and case studies.

Three other activities

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Show all six activities

Review course syllabus

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Review the course outline to build context before diving into the material.

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Skim the syllabus for key topics and concepts.
Identify the course objectives and learning goals.

Participate in a mock negotiation on transboundary water rights

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Engage in a simulated negotiation exercise to practice applying the principles of water law and honing negotiation strategies.

Browse courses on Negotiation Skills

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Form teams representing different riparian states with conflicting water interests.
Research and prepare arguments based on the applicable legal principles and relevant case studies.
Engage in a moderated negotiation session, presenting arguments and seeking mutually acceptable solutions.
Reflect on the negotiation process and identify areas for improvement in future negotiations.

Analyze case studies on transboundary water disputes

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Apply the principles and mechanisms learned in the course to real-world examples of water-related conflicts.

Browse courses on Case Studies

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Select several case studies of transboundary water disputes.
Read and analyze the facts and legal arguments presented in each case.
Identify the applicable legal principles and how they were applied in the resolution of the dispute.
Discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the dispute resolution mechanisms used.

Career center

Learners who complete International Water Law will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Environmental Lawyer

An Environmental Lawyer is tasked with ensuring that organizations follow both the letter and the spirit of environmental laws. To do this, many Environmental Lawyers specialize in environmental law, as the field is quite complex and ever-evolving. From the principles of the law on transboundary water resources to the environmental impact studies discussed in this course, your knowledge of international water law will be hugely beneficial.

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Water Engineer

Water Engineers play a vital role in designing, constructing, and maintaining the systems that bring water to our homes and businesses. They also work on projects to protect water quality and the environment. This course would be particularly helpful for Water Engineers who work in transboundary water disputes, as it would improve their understanding of the legal and regulatory landscape in which they operate. Additionally, the module on the principles of the law on transboundary water resources would be helpful for Water Engineers who are working on projects to protect water quality and the environment.

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Civil Engineer

Civil Engineers design, build, and maintain the infrastructure that we rely on every day, such as roads, bridges, buildings, and water systems. The module in this course on the principles of the law on transboundary water resources would be helpful for Civil Engineers who work on water-related projects, as it would improve their understanding of the legal and regulatory framework that governs these projects.

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Teacher

Teachers teach students about a variety of subjects, including water-related subjects. The modules in this course on the principles of the law on transboundary water resources and the prevention and resolution of water-related disputes would be helpful for Teachers who teach water-related subjects, as it would improve their understanding of the legal and regulatory framework that governs these issues.

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Environmental Scientist

Environmental Scientists study the environment and how it is affected by human activities. They work to find ways to protect the environment and ensure that it is sustainable for future generations. The module in this course on the principles of the law on transboundary water resources would be helpful for Environmental Scientists who work on water-related issues, as it would improve their understanding of the legal and regulatory framework that governs these issues.

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Researcher

Researchers conduct research on a variety of topics, including water-related topics. The modules in this course on the principles of the law on transboundary water resources and the prevention and resolution of water-related disputes would be helpful for Researchers who work on water-related issues, as it would improve their understanding of the legal and regulatory framework that governs these issues.

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Diplomat

Diplomats represent their countries in foreign affairs. They work to negotiate agreements and resolve conflicts between countries. The modules in this course on the principles of the law on transboundary water resources and the prevention and resolution of water-related disputes would be helpful for Diplomats who work on water-related issues, as it would improve their understanding of the legal and regulatory framework that governs these issues.

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Hydrologist

Hydrologists study the movement and distribution of water on the Earth's surface and underground. They use their knowledge to help solve water-related problems, such as droughts, floods, and pollution. The module in this course on the principles of the law on transboundary water resources would be helpful for Hydrologists who work on water-related projects, as it would improve their understanding of the legal and regulatory framework that governs these projects.

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Water Resources Manager

Water Resources Managers oversee the planning, development, and management of water resources. They work to ensure that water resources are used sustainably and equitably. The modules in this course on the principles of the law on transboundary water resources and the prevention and resolution of water-related disputes would be helpful for Water Resources Managers who work on transboundary water issues, as it would improve their understanding of the legal and regulatory framework that governs these issues.

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International Lawyer

International Lawyers advise governments and organizations on international law. They work to negotiate agreements and resolve disputes between countries. The modules in this course on the principles of the law on transboundary water resources and the prevention and resolution of water-related disputes would be helpful for International Lawyers who work on water-related issues, as it would improve their understanding of the legal and regulatory framework that governs these issues.

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Hydrogeologist

Hydrogeologists study groundwater, which is water that is found underground in aquifers. They use their knowledge to help solve water-related problems, such as droughts, floods, and pollution. The module in this course on the principles of the law on transboundary water resources would be helpful for Hydrogeologists who work on water-related projects, as it would improve their understanding of the legal and regulatory framework that governs these projects.

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Legal Advisor

Legal Advisors provide legal advice to governments, organizations, and individuals. They work on a variety of legal issues, including international law. The modules in this course on the principles of the law on transboundary water resources and the prevention and resolution of water-related disputes would be helpful for Legal Advisors who work on water-related issues, as it would improve their understanding of the legal and regulatory framework that governs these issues.

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Project Manager

Project Managers plan, organize, and execute projects. They work on a variety of projects, including water-related projects. The modules in this course on the principles of the law on transboundary water resources and the prevention and resolution of water-related disputes would be helpful for Project Managers who work on water-related projects, as it would improve their understanding of the legal and regulatory framework that governs these projects.

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Water Consultant

Water Consultants provide advice to governments, organizations, and individuals on water-related issues. The modules in this course on the principles of the law on transboundary water resources and the prevention and resolution of water-related disputes would be helpful for Water Consultants who work on transboundary water issues, as it would improve their understanding of the legal and regulatory framework that governs these issues.

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Policy Analyst

Policy Analysts research and analyze public policies. They make recommendations to governments and organizations on how to improve policies. The modules in this course on the principles of the law on transboundary water resources and the prevention and resolution of water-related disputes would be helpful for Policy Analysts who work on water-related issues, as it would improve their understanding of the legal and regulatory framework that governs these issues.

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