Legal and Policy Frameworks for Water Sustainability in the Maghreb region: A Comparative Analysis of Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia

Abstract

Ensuring water sustainability in the Maghreb requires robust legal and policy frameworks. This article provides a comparative, interdisciplinary analysis of water law and governance in Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia. Drawing on national laws, constitutional provisions, and international agreements, we examine how each country’s legal framework addresses water scarcity, quality, and equitable access. The analysis uses a descriptive–comparative methodology to highlight strengths, gaps, and opportunities in existing regimes. We find that while Maghreb nations have established comprehensive water codes and enshrined water rights in their constitutions, enforcement challenges and policy fragmentation persist. Regional initiatives for the North-West Sahara Aquifer System and joint programs under Maghreb institutions demonstrate the potential for cooperation. We conclude with recommendations: modernizing legal instruments to meet contemporary challenges (e.g. climate change), integrating water policy with other sectors, and strengthening regional coordination. These insights aim to guide policymakers and scholars interested in sustainable water management in arid regions (United Nations, 2023; Belhassan, 2022; Kuzma et al., 2023).