Collaborative governance and conflict management in transboundary protected areas for watercourses: insights from marine protected areas beyond national jurisdiction

Effective management of transboundary protected areas (TPAs) for watercourses hinges on collaborative governance, integrated ecosystem approaches, and broad stakeholder involvement. A study analyzing five TPAs—including the Fertö/Neusiedlersee Cultural Landscape—reveals that challenges such as conflicting governance systems and limited cooperation can be mitigated by adopting practices from marine protected areas (MPAs) beyond national jurisdiction. Strengthening governance structures, enhancing integrated management, and fostering stakeholder engagement are critical to conserving transboundary freshwater resources and serving the community of interest.

Wang, J., & Qin, T. (2025). Collaborative governance and conflict management in transboundary protected areas for watercourses: insights from marine protected areas beyond national jurisdiction. Journal of Energy & Natural Resources Law, 43(4), 717–737. https://doi.org/10.1080/02646811.2025.2539626