The Application of the Principle of “Equitable and Reasonable Utilization” in the Tigris-Euphrates River Basin

The principle of equitable and reasonable utilization is the cornerstone of customary and general international law governing transboundary watercourses. However, its application in the Tigris-Euphrates basin is legally and politically complex due to unilateral actions such as dam construction and water diversion projects. Achieving sustainability and harm prevention alongside equitable allocation requires balancing riparian States’ needs, ensuring equitable participation in decision-making, and addressing distributive justice based on each State's circumstances and dependencies. This research employs a descriptive-analytical approach to explain this principle, identify its conventional and customary sources, and assess the factors affecting its application. It examines the Basin's geographical, natural, and environmental conditions to evaluate how the principle is applied. The construction of dams, excessive use of groundwater, and extensive irrigation have led to reduced water inflow and severe impacts on agriculture, the environment, and local communities. These issues highlight a weakening commitment to equitable utilization. Urgent cooperation among riparian States is needed to develop a comprehensive plan that ensures fair water use and sustainable ecological preservation for the Tigris and Euphrates Basin. Findings indicate that unilateral actions have reduced water inflows, harming agriculture, wetlands, and local communities. To ensure equitable utilization, riparian States must adopt a binding legal framework. Establishing joint governance, data-sharing mechanisms, and applying wise use principles, particularly for wetland conservation, are crucial for sustainable water management, fair allocation, and long-term regional stability.

کلیدواژه ها:

International Water Law ، Hydro-politics ، Riparian States& rsquo ، Rights and Obligations ، Distributive Justice in Water Allocation ، Wise Use Principle