Effectiveness of Water Policy of Pakistan in Enabling Stakeholder Participation

Abstract

This paper studies the level of stakeholder participation in gauging the effectiveness of National Water Policy of Pakistan, 2018. Governance of water resources is dependent upon a proper implementation of the policy and is inherently linked with the stakeholder’s inclusivity. There is a need to assess stakeholders’ involvement in the governance of water sector in Pakistan. This exploratory research paper utilized qualitative approach; data was obtained using open ended interviews across the study population. Key findings of the paper indicate that although the National Water Policy of 2018 emphasizes stakeholder participation, there have not been any efforts to implement this by the authorities in charge. The study also found a distinct lack of awareness on part of the public, which is detrimental to the water sector. Stakeholder participation needs to be ensured by the water institutions. The populace needs to be educated about their role in water governance.