A discourse and practice analysis of Hungary's water diplomacy approach

Abstract

The global water crisis became one of the biggest challenges of our 21st century and it greatly impacts international relations. The issue of too much, too little, too polluted water encourages countries not only to conflict but also to work together. The concept of water diplomacy is relatively new to global politics. Hungary is one of the few states that has been engaged in water diplomacy due to its water vulnerability and extensive knowledge of water management. During the history water has been a strategic natural resource for the Hungarians due to its geographical features as a water rich country but 96% of it originates from outside its borders. The approach became a priority in Hungary’s foreign policy since the 2010s, and political leaders make sure that the international arena recognizing Hungary's national role. An empirical study, this thesis investigates water diplomacy as a foreign policy tool through discourse and practice analysis and aims to answer the following objectives, such as how does Hungary practice water diplomacy as a foreign policy tool; how are state identity and national role conception in relation to water constructed in the discourse of foreign policy executives. For a small country, just like Hungary, there are great opportunities in water diplomacy. Hungary has recognised these opportunities and has been turning its disadvantaged position in to a beneficial one. The country's aim is to build a significant role as a global water expert and coordinator and by this improve its international reputation and economic growth.