Analysis of water resources governance in the Paraiba River basin

Abstract

This article aims to analyze the articulation of water resources management with urban management, considering as case study the Paraíba river basin, the OECD governance principles were applied to define guidelines and recommendations for good governance. We discuss the integration on the territory as a fundamental element for a good management of water resources and despite the advanced legislations in Brazil, some gaps need to be overcome for a better articulation between territory and water management, for its public policies were conceived and implemented as if the dynamics were independent. In this regard, guidelines have been proposed based on OECD governance principles, to fill the gaps between urban and water resources management. Thus, the need for better policy-making strategies was identified, considering that while the political-administrate divisions different, the territory and resources are the same. And, decision-making process, whether in the basin or in the municipality be able to reflect a true territory use, the processes occur in cities, have effects in the river basin, thus requesting greater commitment and participation of the stakeholders.