The privatization initiatives in the turkish water sector: Reflections on the transboundary water politics in the euphrates-tigris river basin

Abstract

Turkey’s proposed privatization plan, notwithstanding the fact that it is not yet implemented, is the first case of a planning of a largescale privatization of (parts of) the transboundary rivers, namely the Euphrates and Tigris Rivers. This chapter aims to articulate a number of risks associated with any privatization in the Euphrates-Tigris transboundary river basin. To this end, the first section expresses major policy configurations in the water sector by following a historical line of reasoning. A wide range of literature outlining arguments for and against privatization in the water sector is provided as a ground for debate. The second section displays the Euphrates-Tigris River basin’s characteristics, hydropolitical relations and possible outcomes resulting out of the privatization plan. Additionally, the chapter provides considered recommendations that can be used in near future as the Turkish government continues to support the private sector, privatization projects in particular. © 2015 by Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.