A vision for water security and sustainability in the Arab world

Modern history denotes that the Arab water resources are in danger: Shared river basins are threatened, groundwater reservoirs are over exploited against the Arab interests, and potential rainfall catchments are occupied. While politics might overshadow facts, the truth is, Arab water resources are targeted. Most Arab countries nowadays suffer sever water shortages and the rest are approaching a similar fate. Modern history asserts that scientific and technological innovations determine the power of nations and not their natural resources. The history of the Arab civilization witnessed remarkable achievements that faded out with time. The authors are confident that the Arab credibility can be regained, if their innovative capacities, economic resources, skills and experiences are combined to face their challenges. This paper proposes the establishment of “Arab Research and Learning Network for Water Science and Technology”. The proposed network integrates experiences from different Arab countries in water sciences and technologies. The network will be managed, operated and funded by Arab resources and offers professional certification. The network will create Arab driven solutions and technologies with the sole purpose of sustaining Arab water resources for economic growth.