Fluid perspectives: Ethnic dynamics in perceiving water scarcity

The research addresses the perspectives of different ethnic groups in Iran on the water crisis . It is noted that water policy and the disparities in the use and distribution of water resources have become fundamental causes of regional disputes and ethnic conflicts. The viewpoints of ethnic groups on the water crisis are closely associated with the unjust utilization of water resources, leading to difficulties in access for certain ethnic groups. In this context, it is emphasized that the water crisis could potentially lead to increased tensions and conflicts among ethnic groups, posing a threat to stability in the region. Events like the drying up of Lake Urmia and Zayanderud River underscore the dimensions of environmental issues and the water crisis. The crisis surrounding Lake Urmia in Iran's Azerbaijan region has had adverse effects on local communities, leading to environmental protests as a response. This situation not only causes environmental damage but also economic and social problems. The methodological approach employed in this study is qualitative research. Data were collected through document analysis techniques from existing literature. The data were gathered through a purposive sampling method using snowball sampling. The existing written and visual literature on the subject was reviewed, and interviews were conducted with individuals who were detained and later released or contributed to water protests. In the analysis phase, themes were identified and interpreted from the data collected through the content analysis method.