Transboundary cooperation of Western Balkan states in the field of water resource management: Between the existing treaties and a new international treaty

Abstract

The objective of the paper is to explore the existing conditions and possibilities for the improvement of co-operation between some Western Balkan states (Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro and Republic of Serbia) which occupy the Drina River basin (DRB). The article analyses the existing international treaties with the purpose of giving an answer to the question whether they present a satisfactory legal framework. It points to the factors which determine co-operation, and explores the possibilities for the conclusion of a new international treaty on the co-operation between the three states. It explores the possibilities for the conclusion of a new international treaty on the establishment of co-operation between the three states, this implying consideration of the reasons for and against the adoption of a separate international agreement on co-operation between the states in the region. The paper considers the thesis on the need for the improvement of co-operation between the DRB states to be based on the concept of integrated water resources management.