LEGAL FOUNDATIONS OF INTERSTATE COOPERATION IN THE UTILIZATION OF TRANSBOUNDARY FRESHWATER RESOURCES

Abstract

The governance of transboundary freshwater resources is increasingly recognized as a fundamental component of global security, ecological sustainability, and economic development within both academic and political discourse. Climate change, demographic pressures, and anthropogenic stress are intensifying water scarcity, thereby heightening the risks of international conflicts and posing new challenges to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the legal foundations of interstate cooperation in the management of transboundary water resources, the concept of water diplomacy, and the mechanisms of regional integration. According to the authorʼs perspective, transboundary waters should be regarded not merely as natural resources but as strategic instruments for strengthening international cooperation, fostering socio-economic development, and reinforcing security architectures. Particular emphasis is placed on the principles of international law equitable and reasonable utilization, the obligation not to cause harm, information exchange, and the equal participation of stakeholders which are evaluated as the methodological foundations of global water policy. The findings demonstrate that the synergy of legal mechanisms, political will, and scientifically informed governance constitutes a key prerequisite for ensuring regional security, sustainable development, and economic integration. Within this framework, water diplomacy is interpreted as an innovative approach to conflict prevention and the promotion of long-term cooperation.