Community Participation in Urban Water Services

This document shows how community participation is in the commercial interest of private companies involved in urban water systems in developing and transition economies. It also shows how evolving policy and commercial contexts will require the private sector to actively engage with low-income communities. It is intended for those involved in the water industry. While all potential stakeholders (e.g. governments, multilateral and bilateral donors, civil society, the general public) may find the report helpful in giving an overview of the challenges and trends in this sector, the report is primarily written with the international private sector in mind.

It is hoped that this document will make a contribution towards establishing pro-poor best practice in the international water business by raising awareness of the opportunities that exist in private sector participation, by promoting poor- inclusive business practice, and by helping companies establish procedures for field operations.

Community participation will play an important role in future private sector opportunities in urban water supplies in developing and transition economies. This report is intended to support the industry in responding to this. It is intended to summarise the issues that must be faced, and to help water companies position the right skills and policies so that all stakeholders benefit. This win-win situation will enable water companies to reduce risk and costs, governments to get effective and sustainable management of water supplies, and the urban poor to influence change and access water services.