Explorar los relacionamientos entre los actores de la gobernanza del agua en comunidades rurales: Narrativas de acueductos comunitarios y el Estado en Colombia

This article contributes to the understanding of water governance and self-management of natural resources in Latin America, based on the research question: Who are the key actors in the relationships between community water systems and the government in rural areas of Colombia? Using qualitative methods, including interviews and content analysis of water policies, we describe the gap between the actors and relationships in the policies and water governance practices implemented by community water plants. We found that both public officials and community leaders recognize the importance of community water plants in water management and the democratic strengthening of rural communities. One obstacle to effective collaboration in water governance is the mutual distrust among parties. We also observed the crucial role of nonprofits and universities in supporting community water management in rural areas. This study contributes to the literature on water governance and self-management of natural resources in Latin America.