Participatory Mechanism of the International Boundary and Water Commission: Governance Challenges for Water Security

Abstract

This paper analyzes the features, principles and functioning of the citizen participation mechanism implemented by the International Boundary and Water Commission (IBWC) on the Mexico-U.S. border, contrasting it with other similar mechanisms for transboundary water management. Based on the perspectives of public participation, water governance and water security, this paper examines the case of the IBWC’s Citizens Forum, specifically the one set up to tackle Colorado River issues in the Mexicali and San Luis Río Colorado region. The author observes that participatory mechanisms existed even before NAFTA’s environmental side agreements, and the way they have the potential to transfer learning experiences in order to involve local communities in water projects. The study shows the existence of active citizen participation, supported by regulations in keeping with a governance strategy, whose main obstacle is paradoxically the organizations that should be promoting and guaranteeing it. Finally, the author suggests transferring positive experiences in order to improve participatory water management in the region.