THE ROLE OF INTERNATIONAL AGREEMENTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL LEGISLATION IN MAINTAINING THE SUSTAINABILITY OF WATER RESOURCES IN EGYPT

Egypt faces increasing challenges in securing its water resources amid rising demand, escalating environmental issues such as pollution and climate change, and the impact of regional water projects. This study aims to analyze Egypt’s environmental legislation on water resources, evaluating its effectiveness in achieving water sustainability and identifying challenges hindering the implementation of current environmental laws on both national and international levels. It also examines the negative impacts on water resources and proposes solutions and regulatory frameworks that enhance water governance and legislative efficiency, contributing to the protection and sustainability of water resources for future generations. Additionally, the study highlights the role of civil society and international cooperation in achieving sustainable water security. The study’s findings indicate that existing legislation includes provisions aimed at protecting water resources; however, these require regular updates to address environmental changes and growing pressures on water resources. Implementation faces challenges related to weak coordination among responsible authorities and a lack of public awareness about the importance of water conservation. The study recommends reviewing and updating environmental legislation to require institutions to prepare water conservation plans, modernize irrigation techniques in agriculture to improve efficiency, establish a central body to coordinate water policies as a unified reference for planning and managing water projects, and strengthen water diplomacy to ensure continued dialogue and reach comprehensive agreements.