Multiple water governance models: Ecuador as a case study

Abstract

Appropriate water management is essential for healthy urban and rural metabolism. Unfortunately, many challenges are associated with water governance, encompassing varying degrees of cooperation and conflict. This technical note describes the multiple water governance models in place in Ecuador such as public, private, community, and partnerships; supported by literature, and discusses the efficiency level of each model for drinking water supply and democratic citizen participation. The analysis articulates how the heterogeneity of governance models across the country respond to different socio-economic and environmental characteristics, and how the distinctive models of water governance lead to vast differences in how people understand and experience governance. The presentation and qualitative case comparison of the existing water management models revealed the transversal character of the problems affecting efficient water management, as well as the sector associated challenges and limitations. The note attempts to establish some insights about the conditions under which the various water management models are suitable and effective. The manuscript concludes by outlining several directions for future research.