The UN Watercourses Convention established the first global legal framework for the use and conservation of internationally shared surface and groundwater resources.
Key Facts
- Adoption date
- 21 May 1997
- Entry into force
- 17 August 2014
- Years to enter into force
- More than 17 years
- Ratifying states
- 36 states
- Scope
- All waters crossing international boundaries, surface and groundwater
By the Numbers
Location
Cause → Event → Consequence
Growing global demand for freshwater and increasing human impact on shared water systems prompted the United Nations to seek a binding international instrument. The goal was to establish common rules for the use and conservation of transboundary watercourses for present and future generations.
On 21 May 1997, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Convention on the Law of Non-Navigational Uses of International Watercourses. The treaty covers all internationally shared surface water and groundwater, setting out principles for equitable utilization and environmental protection.
Despite adoption in 1997, the Convention required over 17 years to achieve the minimum ratifications needed to enter into force in August 2014. With only 36 ratifying states and most major countries remaining outside its scope, its practical reach remains limited, though it is recognized as a foundational step in international water law.
Political Outcome
Convention adopted by the UN General Assembly on 21 May 1997; entered into force 17 August 2014 after ratification by 36 states, with most major countries remaining outside its scope.