Responsibilization in Water Supply in International Development

Abstract

Domestic water supply responsibilities in the Global South are typically explored through the lens of the efficiency or failure of different models. In this article, we explore how, why, and with what effects various responsibilities have been assigned at different scales, focusing on global–local relations and perspectives of individuals (end users), social groups, and communities. We conceptualize responsibilization in water by proposing a framework to analyze three questions: (1) How is responsibilization institutionalized and rationalized?—including its rationales and mechanisms of power; (2) How is it operationalized and negotiated?—focusing on capacities and negotiations of responsibility; (3) With what impacts at the individual level?—particularly competing, gendered responsibilities and vulnerabilities. Through a literature review, we critically examine the techniques and expansion of responsibilization, highlighting how they may lead to negative impacts.