Water Management and Protection in Spain

Abstract

Water management and water quality are issues subject to a complex distribution of competences in Spain. The main problems are in the context of the vertical relationships between the Spanish State (national Government) and the regional governments (Autonomous Communities). However, conflicts have also developed on a horizontal level (between Autonomous Communities). In this regard, the work of the Constitutional Court has been decisive in resolving territorial conflicts. In the sphere of local government competence, issues are less problematic due to the more limited and concrete purview of action assigned to Municipalities and their subordinate position within the structure of territorial organization. This chapter addresses both levels separately. The Water Framework Directive (WFD) demands ?greater integration of protection and sustainable water management in other community political spheres?, with special reference to territorial planning. In Spain, this integration has transcended the territorial framework, but with some variations. Keywords:autonomous communities; Constitutional Court; regional governments; Spanish State; Water Framework Directive (WFD); water management; water quality