Integrated Water Resources Management in Kosovo (IWRM-K) Program Phase 1
Location
Country-wide, Republic of Kosovo
project period
May 2020 – April 2024
client
SDC – Swiss Cooperation Office in Kosovo
Services provided
Project implementation
Partner organisation
Environment Agency Austria (EAA); World University Services (WUS)
In Kosovo, based on its long-standing engagement in the water services area, the SDC sets out to support over the next decade the establishment of an Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) approach with related institutional capacities and people’s skills.
Kosovo is one of the most water-stressed countries in Southeast Europe due to its specific natural features combined with human pressure: lack of investments in water infrastructure, inefficient water use and water pollution from mining, untreated wastewaters, as well as agricultural runoff. Growing demand for water amplifies the challenge. Modifications of streams and natural basin structure heighten the risk of droughts and floods. Impacts of climate change increase the vulnerability of ecosystems and economy. The trans-boundary character of the four river basins further complicates water management. Although the National Water Policy promotes an IWRM approach and the related Law of Waters introduces contemporary EU-based water management practices, a functioning IWRM framework is not yet in place in Kosovo.
