Transboundary Water Management and Diplomacy: The Case of Hamun Wetlands

Abstract

The Hamun Wetlands, a vital transboundary ecosystem located between Iran and Afghanistan, vividly illustrate the complex interplay of water management, environmental sustainability, and international diplomacy in arid regions. These wetlands are predominantly sustained by the Hirmand (Helmand) River, but in recent decades, they have suffered significant degradation. This decline is primarily due to prolonged droughts, reduced river inflow, and ongoing disputes over water allocation, which are deeply rooted in historical agreements-most notably the 1973 Iran-Afghanistan water treaty. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the historical background, current conflicts, environmental and human rights consequences, as well as diplomatic initiatives related to the Hamun Wetlands. It examines major challenges, including Afghanistan’s inconsistent adherence to water-sharing commitments, the impact of the Taliban’s return to power, and broader regional geopolitical dynamics. The article also explores opportunities for cooperation through international frameworks such as the Ramsar Convention, ultimately emphasizing the urgent need for sustainable, cooperative diplomacy to prevent ecological collapse and secure equitable water access for affected communities, while offering policy recommendations for future bilateral and multilateral engagement.