Water tenure

FAO supports countries in strengthening their water governance to respond to growing challenges such as climate change, water scarcity and food insecurity. A key component of this work is advancing the concept of water tenure.

Water tenure defines who has rights to use water, under what conditions, and how those rights are governed. It includes formally and legally recognized water rights- such as permits and concessions - as well as customary and informal arrangements rooted in local practices and traditions.  Water tenure also recognizes water rights of Indigenous Peoples and arrangements to safeguard ecosystem functions, including environmental flow regimes. 

A water tenure assessment for informed and inclusive decision‑making

In many contexts, formal legislation does not sufficiently recognize water-use rights held under customary arrangements by small farmers, fisherfolk and pastoralists.  To support more equitable and sustainable water allocation, FAO has developed a water tenure assessment methodology. 

A water tenure assessment, complemented by sound water accounting, provides decision-makers with a neutral and inclusive overview of all water users and uses at national and subnational levels. This methodology offers a practical tool that assists policymakers define and protect water-use rights, while ensuring food security, livelihoods and the integrity of natural ecosystems. Secure tenure rights empower water users to plan, invest, and manage water sustainably.

Global Dialogue on Water Tenure: Building shared principles for water governance

In a context of increasing competition for water and growing pressure on water allocation systems, FAO leads the Global Dialogue on Water Tenure, as an inclusive, multi‑stakeholder platform to improve understanding of how water‑use rights are defined, recognized and governed in practice.

Through the Dialogue, FAO works with Members and key stakeholders to identify non-binding Principles for Responsible Governance of Water Tenure. These principles will complement recognized frameworks, including the Voluntary Guidelines on the Responsible Governance of Tenure of Land, Fisheries and Forests in the Context of National Food Security.

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