Water Protection in Armed Conflict and the U.N. Watercourses Convention
The U.N. Watercourses Convention is a crucial agreement governing non-navigational use of international watercourses, at a time when war continues to pose challenges to water and aquatic ecosystems. This Article examines Article 29 of the Convention, which specifically addresses protection of international watercourses and related installations during armed conflict. It traces the evolution of Article 29 and reveals that its reminder function and non-prejudicial nature vis-Ã -vis existing laws facilitated its adoption despite initial controversy. It then investigates the strengths and weaknesses of Article 29 and examines its role within the broader framework of international law. The Article further explores how other treaties might draw inspiration from this provision to better address environmental issues arising during armed conflict.