The Water Cooperation and Diplomacy Programme is jointly delivered by the IHE Delft Institute for Water Education, the University for Peace (UPEACE) in Costa Rica, and Oregon State University (OSU).

Key strengths of the programme include the following:

  • Exposure to theory followed by practical exposure to contemporary issues through field work at different scales
  • Strong theoretical foundation in diplomacy and conflict studies
  • Particular emphasis on conflict from different points of view
  • Foundation in how to understand the nexus of environment and development: how to integrate water-related issues in a broader environment and development framework
  • Focus on practical skills-training for actual dispute resolution processes
  • Collaborative and interdisciplinary project work
  • Field experience in both the Global South and Global North contexts
  • Extended networking opportunities from different but complementary fields (water-oriented experts, and peace and conflict experts)

The IHE Delft Institute for Water Education carries out educational, research and capacity development activities in the broad fields of water engineering, water management, sanitation and governance. It is the largest international graduate education institute in the field of water.

The University of Peace (UPEACE) is a global leader in research and education related to peace, security and conflict and will take the lead in training students in the underlying theories of and approaches to peace, security and conflict. Through this unique partnership, UPEACE will provide a broader historical, legal and theoretical context to water conflict. UPEACE’s geographical setting in the Global South will also expose students to water-related conflicts at different scales through field-based study and research.

Oregon State University (OSU) has a strong graduate program in Water Resources that will provide students with access to a broad range of courses and faculty expertise, and the opportunity to earn a certificate in Water Conflict Management and Transformation (WCMT). The coursework at OSU also offers a field-based component, addressing water conflicts ranging from the local to the international scale.

Read the student handbook for the Water Cooperation and Diplomacy Programme for more details.