Water scarcity threatens development opportunities in many parts of the world. Declining and fluctuating rainfall, increased evaporation rates, and recurring droughts all contribute to reduced dependence on and availability of water resources. International rivers account for an estimated 60% of the world's freshwater flows. There are approximately 276 international rivers globally, covering nearly half of the Earth's surface. An international river is defined as one that flows through or separates the territories of more than one country, distinguishing it from a national river, which lies entirely (from source to mouth) within the territory of a single state and is subject to its sovereignty.
The growing demand for water compels countries to develop their resources. Population growth and expanding economies necessitate increased water use, leading riparian states in international river basins to increasingly rely on these resources to meet the demands for drinking water, agriculture, energy, and industrial production. This, in turn, increases the risk of overuse and the resulting ecosystem degradation. In light of this, discussions have emerged regarding the management of water scarcity in general, and the management of international rivers in particular. Some argue that the inevitable fate of countries sharing an international river basin is conflict over water resources, with one country dominating the river's water and resources. The increasing competition for water between countries has led to a sometimes polarized public debate, with some predicting a future of "water wars" as countries assert their competing claims. For example, the 2012 Global Water Security Report by the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) indicated that rapid population and urban growth, increased industrial and agricultural activity, rising per capita consumption, growing demand for hydroelectric power, and climate change could increase water demand by up to 40% by 2040, potentially exacerbating conflicts. The report warns that the collapse of fragile water agreements could lead some countries to use water as a tool for political pressure in the future, similar to the current use of gas and oil.
