Evaluation of the concept of water resources management at the national and international levels

Water is an essential resource for the survival of all living things on earth and plays a critical role in agriculture, industry and energy production, but factors such as global warming, climate change, increasing population and excessive water use are rapidly increasing the scarcity and pollution of water resources. Therefore, the effective management of water has become an important issue at both national and international levels. In this study, the basic principles of water management have been identified through a literature review, together with an examination of approaches to water resources management. These principles include sustainability, integrated resource management and stakeholder participation. In this context, studies conducted within the framework of the United Nations' millennium development goals and sustainable development goals related to water are also included. In the study, Turkey's institutional structure, legal structure, strategic plans and studies carried out by non-governmental organizations in water management are examined and evaluations are made on what kind of developments have been made in practice on the management of river basins. Beyond the national situation, the perspectives of international institutions and organizations on the management of water resources and what kind of studies they carry out have been examined. As a result, although our country is not in a good situation in terms of water indicators, it is a necessary phenomenon to ensure a sustainable water resources management. In addition, it has emerged that an up-to-date water law process should be completed by eliminating the confusion in the institutional structuring and legislation related to water management in our country, ensuring cooperation and coordination among institutions and ensuring authority in terms of duties and powers.