Climate Change and Water Security in Istanbul: Human Rights Challenges Amidst Urban Growth and Infrastructure Vulnerability

Abstract

Istanbul, which is a rapidly growing metropolitan municipality, straddling two continents, faces acute water security challenges which are exacerbated by anthropogenic climate change, unchecked urbanization and pronounced socio-economic disparities, thus precipitating significant human rights ramifications. The increased likelihood of droughts, especially evident on the European side where 65% of the population lives while only 35% of water resources are available, is linked to the increased variability of precipitation and the trend of temperatures in response to climate change. Urban settlement in important hydrological catchments has increased the chances of contamination and industrial wastes contribute to further loss in quality of freshwater. Structural weaknesses (as illustrated by the Melen Dam whose impairment has greatly reduced storage capacity) increase the vulnerability of supply systems. Collectively, these stressors undercut equitable access to adequate and potable water, thus violating the fundamental right to water and sanitation. Addressing the water crisis in Istanbul requires a series of complex interventions, such as climate adaptation plans, updating the network of water infrastructure and implementing strong environmental protection measures. The case study shows how this problem is not unique to Istanbul; megacities around the world struggle with similar problems as they strive to balance urban development with climate resilience and human rights. Guaranteeing long term water security in Istanbul is thus not only necessary to ensure the maintenance of public health, safeguarding ecological integrity but also ensuring social equity within the domains of social justice and resource allocation in the face of climatic stressors and infrastructural constraints.