Enhancing Transboundary Water Security via a Participatory Negotiation Support Framework

Abstract Negotiation support systems (NSSs) are increasingly recognized as essential platforms for fostering constructive engagement and cooperative negotiation to achieve water security across international basins. This study presents the Operationalizing Water Security by Indicator Cluster Matrix (WOSCIM) framework, designed to address the multidimensional aspects of water security using the United Nations (UN) Water Security Conceptual Framework. The WOSCIM framework integrates eight vital elements from the UN framework, providing an indicator-based approach for assessing and implementing water security measures within NSS frameworks. The study demonstrates the application of WOSCIM in the shared water resources of the Congo basin, particularly the Democratic Republic of Congo. By evaluating critical water security components in cross-border settings, the framework facilitates informed evidence-based decision-making and promotes resilience-building within communities. WOSCIM bridges gaps among riparian states and advances inclusive water management practices through its participatory approach. Positioned as a decision support tool, WOSCIM promotes collaboration in transboundary water governance by offering a robust tool to assess and reform water management policies. Furthermore, it contributes to climate risk management, enabling more resilient and sustainable outcomes in international water negotiations. By focusing on participatory, evidence-based strategies, WOSCIM provides a flexible and scalable framework for addressing water security challenges and fostering cooperation among riparian states.