Water Management and Protection in the Western Balkans

Abstract

To illustrate water management and protection patterns throughout the Western Balkans, three countries namely Croatia, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina have been chosen to represent the region. Different phases of negotiation with the EU as well as varying levels of harmonization with water legislation affect water governance of these countries. Two main legal acts govern water management and protection in Croatia ? the Water Act and the Water Management Financing Act. In Montenegro, four ministries and seven public administration bodies are currently in charge of activities related to water protection and management. Harmonization with EU legislation and policy in water sector in Montenegro is not as advanced as it is in Croatia. In keeping with general attitude toward environment, water management and protection in Bosnia and Herzegovina is not dealt with at the State level, but at the level of entities and the Brcko District as special unit of local governance. Keywords:Bosnia; Croatia; Herzegovina; Montenegro; water act; water management financing act; water protection; Western Balkans