The Danube: Environmental Monitoring of an International River

The Danube river is one of the world's greatest international freshwater resources. It stretches halfway across Europe and its water is shared by 17 nations. With so many countries dependent on one limited resource, conflicts are bound to arise. This book focuses on the dispute between Hungary and the Slovak Republic over the Gabèíkovo-Nagymaros hydroelectric dam project. It examines the history and progress of the case from the International Court of Justice to the subsequent agreement to joint monitoring and assessment of the environmental implications. The authors use a multidisciplinary approach covering natural resources management, geography, international relations, political science, and international law. Environmental monitoring is essential to resolving transboundary water conflicts. The authors discuss the extensive monitoring programs implemented by the two countries, attempts to link various causes and effects of the project, and how monitoring can help enhance public participation for sustainable solutions. Based on original documents and research, and including numerous maps, figures, and appendices, this book is a useful reference on the applications of environmental monitoring and data sharing for improving the management of international waters.