Urban water conflicts, manifested first in Europe in the 19th century and observed nowadays in various forms in developing countries; characterize complex socioeconomic and institutional issues related to urban water management. The public versus private debate is frequently associated with conflicts over water and sanitation services. The less considered issue of centralization versus decentralization also needs to be taken in the same context as these are often intertwined. Therefore, a critical examination in a holistic way is important for better understanding urban water conflicts....

Urban water conflicts manifested first in Europe in the 19th century and are observed nowadays in various forms throughout the world; in particular, in developing countries. Main causes of these conflicts are characterized by complex socioeconomic and institutional issues related to urban water management. The debate about public water services versus private water supplies is frequently associated with conflicts over water price and affordability. On the other hand, the issue of centralization versus decentralization of water utilities is also often discussed in the context of...