Transboundary cooperation on crisis management for river flooding and droughts

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2017-07-07
Language
en
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This research examines the context of the Dutch-Belgian transboundary cooperation within the Rhine-Meuse-Scheldt delta. Both countries share two bigger river basins, the Meuse and the Scheldt, which both confluence in this delta. Regions nearby these rivers are vulnerable in terms of river flooding, especially since sea levels also influence high water levels in this context. Flood risk management is executed by both water and crisis managers, resulting in complex structures within one single country. The system becomes even more complex in case of cross-border regions. Flood risk management is dealt with by two different countries that both have other structures. Problems and challenges in terms of politic-administrative structures, languages and cultures occur in this kind of border regions. This delta has multiple ports which offer entrance to bigger cities in the hinterlands of Europe. Because of its economic relevance and the need for water safety, transboundary cooperation on crisis management in this basin can be beneficial to both societies. However, the multiple actors, funds, conflicting benefits and different legislations cause the policy-making process within this Dutch-Belgian border area to be messy and should therefore be clarified before further development towards improving the cooperation process can be achieved.
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Faculteit der Managementwetenschappen