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2023 | OriginalPaper | Chapter

3. Exploring the Sub-state–Supra-state Nexus in Transboundary Water Politics

Author : Atal Ahmadzai

Published in: Theorizing Transboundary Waters in International Relations

Publisher: Springer International Publishing

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Abstract

Theorizing transboundary water in International Relations (IR) theory explores the role of shared basins in shaping power dynamics between co-riparian states. The conflict-cooperation dichotomy expounds on shared water in a utilitarian context that can either cause conflict between or converge the interests of the riparian states. On the critical side, hydro-hegemony offers a basin-wide hegemon-subaltern dyadic based on state-centered power asymmetries and hierarchies. Contributing to the debate on exploring the political implications of shared basins, IR theory, however, failed to escape its simplistic and deterministic assumptions. Considering co-riparian states as unitary competitors that seek unitary interests, IR theory overlooked sub-national and global political imperatives of transboundary water. The theory also could not adequately examine the complex and multidirectional nature of power dynamics in shared rivers. By studying the roles of the Pakistan military and the World Bank in water governance in Pakistan, this chapter explores the sub-state—supra-state nexus in dominating transboundary water politics. The hegemonic control of Pakistan military serves group-based interests. By offering technical, financial, and conflict mitigation expertise, the World Bank advances its global agendas, as well as, enables the military’s domination in the water sector.

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previous chapter Theories of International Relations and the Hydropolitical Cycle: The Hydro-Trap and the Anarchic Nature of Water Conflict

next chapter Trust in Transboundary Water Cooperation: A Social Constructivist Approach

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Title: Exploring the Sub-state–Supra-state Nexus in Transboundary Water Politics
Author: Atal Ahmadzai
Publisher: Springer International Publishing
Book: Theorizing Transboundary Waters in International Relations
Print ISBN: 978-3-031-43375-7

Electronic ISBN: 978-3-031-43376-4

Copyright Year: 2023
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-43376-4_3

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