What's Happening?
On December 11, 2025, Claudia Sheinbaum, the head of the Federal Executive Branch in Mexico, enacted the General Water Law (LGA) and amended various provisions of the National Water Law (LAN). This legislative move aims to guarantee the human right to water
and sanitation, a goal set since the 2012 constitutional reform. The LGA establishes a framework for equitable and sustainable water access, defining government responsibilities at federal, state, and municipal levels. It prioritizes personal and domestic water use and prohibits the complete suspension of water services, even for non-payment. The law also introduces mechanisms for citizen participation and regulates rainwater harvesting. Additionally, it creates a National Water Reserve Fund to centralize control over water rights, ensuring that any unallocated water volumes are managed by the National Water Commission (CONAGUA).
Why It's Important?
The enactment of the General Water Law is significant as it strengthens the legal framework for water management in Mexico, emphasizing water as a fundamental human right. This law could serve as a model for other nations grappling with water scarcity and rights issues. By centralizing control over water rights and prioritizing domestic use, the law aims to ensure equitable access to water resources, potentially reducing conflicts over water allocation. The introduction of a National Water Reserve Fund and stricter controls over water rights transfers could lead to more sustainable water management practices. This reform is crucial for addressing the challenges posed by climate change and population growth, which are expected to increase water demand and stress on existing resources.
What's Next?
The implementation of the General Water Law will require coordination among federal, state, and municipal governments to align their policies with the new legal framework. The National Water Commission (CONAGUA) will play a pivotal role in managing the National Water Reserve Fund and overseeing the reassignment of water rights. Secondary regulations will need to be developed to clarify the processes for rainwater harvesting and the specific conditions under which water rights can be transferred. Stakeholders, including private and social sectors, will need to engage in discussions to ensure the law's effective implementation. Monitoring and evaluation mechanisms will be essential to assess the law's impact on water access and sustainability.
Beyond the Headlines
The General Water Law's emphasis on citizen participation and community water systems highlights a shift towards more inclusive water governance. By involving vulnerable communities in decision-making processes, the law aims to address historical inequities in water access. The regulation of rainwater harvesting could encourage innovative water conservation practices, reducing reliance on traditional water sources. However, the centralization of water rights control may face resistance from private entities accustomed to more flexible water rights transfers. The law's success will depend on balancing state control with community needs and ensuring transparency in water management decisions.
