A Discussion about Institutionalization of Global Water Movement

Local social movements against water politics shaped by neoliberal impact have started to create an international public opinion through transnational initiatives. Within the anti-globalization movements, World Social Forum has created a platform for the discussion of global water problems. Moreover, the emergence of Alternative Water Forums has accelerated global water struggle. Global water movement which draws a parallel between the problem of access to the water and neoliberalism has increasingly strengthened the anti-systemic discourse. This global movement which has been shaped by local/global antidam and anti-privatization movements has struggled in order to spread these principles: right to water, equitable and fair water policies, public management of water resources, organizing people for the water justice, improving solidarity with other social movements. In this case, it should be discussed whether the institutionalization of the movement that organized by networks could contribute to global water struggle and anti-systemic movements. It is argued that the struggle to transform global water politics could be more effective by institutionalization and that institutionalization could be an example for the anti-globalization movement. In this context, it will be discussed whether the idea of institutionalization could contribute redefining of democracy and participation.