Public Access to Information and Participation in Decision-Making over International River Management

Comparative Studies on the Institutional Frameworks for Managing the Mekong River and the Danube River and Their Basins

Abstract

The public access to information and decision making over environmental matters are critical components for effective environmental management and sustainability promotion. However, the policy and institutional framework and the operation of management bodies differ significantly from a case to a case. While the Mekong River Commission has been introducing instrumental procedures on prior notification, consultation and agreement, the disputes between member countries continue to persist. On the other hand, a number of hydropower generation projects continue to increase, riparian countries of the Danube River harness cooperation and prevent disputes through the elaborated policy tools and institutional mechanisms that promote information disclosure and public consultations.