THE ROLE OF SUSTAINABLE WATER MANAGEMENT AND EFFECTIVE GOVERNANCE IN MITIGATING WATER CONFLICT IN THE MIDDLE EAST

Abstract Water scarcity and conflict represent critical challenges in the Middle East and the Nile Basin, regions where water resources are both vital and limited. This study explores the role of sustainable water management and effective governance in mitigating water conflicts, with a focus on the complex interplay between environmental, economic, and sociopolitical dimensions. Drawing on a combination of primary and secondary data and employing descriptive analysis, the research examines historical legacies, governance structures, and management practices that shape water politics in transboundary contexts. This research provides actionable recommendations for fostering cooperation and mitigating conflict, including the establishment of binding legal frameworks, promotion of regional dialogue, and integration of advanced technologies into water management practices. By adopting these strategies, stakeholders can transform water from a source of conflict into a catalyst for regional stability and shared prosperity. The findings offer valuable insights for addressing water challenges not only in the Nile Basin and the Middle East but also in other regions facing similar transboundary water issues. Keywords: Water Scarcity, Transboundary Water Management, Governance and Sustainability, Nile Basin Conflict, Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD)