water governance assessment in a local scale - case study: the water governance in azarshahr, north west of iran

Based on the presented analytical framework of governance as a theoretical basis, the purpose of this study is to assess the state of - azarshahr water resources system- governance by using deductive qualitative content analysis. the main data were collected through semi-structured interviews among the stakeholders who have roles in the water resource system. the coding process was carried out based on the analytical framework of governance and eight main categories were identified according to the governance analysis framework. in each of these categories and subcategories, there are weaknesses and gaps such as lack of long-term strategic planning, absence of an iwrm plan at the national level, failure to adhere to the rules, lack of attention to the old customs and rules of water in the text of the new laws, fragmented tasks, and conflicting goals, lack of stakeholders’ participation in water-related processes, and low water tariffs. the human right to water category is one of the strengths of the components of water governance in the area. all stakeholders should be convinced that if water governance is limited to the government, it will be confronted with many problems, in this way, the participation of all stakeholders in issues related to water is necessary.