UN-Water produced a status report regarding the progress of water resources management in several countries as well as possible outcomes and impacts of integrated approaches. It is also based on a 2011 UN-Water survey sent to the governments of all UN member states and a series of complementary interviews in 30 representative countries.
- Since 1992, 80% of countries have tried reforms to improve the environment for water resources management.
- Water related risks and the competition for water are perceived by a majority of countries to have increased over the past 20 years.
- Countries that have adopted integrated approaches report more advanced infrastructure development but further efforts are needed to ensure appropriate levels of coordination.
- Countries report a gradual positive trend in financing for water resources development and management with more diverse sources of finance but little progress on payment for water resources services.
- Countries report improvements to the institutional framework together with improved policies, laws and systems over the past 20 years. This has led to better water resources management practices bringing important socio-economic benefits.
- Integrated approaches to water resources management and development are critical for progress towards a green economy.
- The survey showed the progress made with integrated approaches to water resources management as called for at the UNCED in 1992.
- The high country response to the survey shows the value of reporting and emphasizes the need for a more rigorous, evidence-based, reporting system on progress with water resources development and management