And from water we created every living thing : a study about actors and factors influencing the behaviour of Dhamari farmers with regard to water distribution in Yemen

This thesis tries to answer the following central question: "Which main actors and factors influence the behaviour of rural farmers with regard to water distribution in a water scarce area in Yemen?" The introduction of the thesis describes the research background, the problem definition, the research methodologies and its limitations and considerations. Chapter one discusses several theoretical approaches. Amongst others it gives a treatise of the global water crisis, Hardin's Tragedy of the Commons and the Prisoner's Dilemma, sustainable development and Long's Actor-Oriented Approach. Chapter two focuses in detail on the Yemeni water crisis. Important elements described are the principal water problems, its consequences and (possible) solutions. Besides this the different actors involved and arising conflicts of interests are mentioned. Chapter three and four present empirical findings of this research elaborated in six Dhamari villages combined with already available literature regarding water distribution in the Governorate. Different irrigation practices are highlighted, as well as situations of conflict, co-operation and regulation. Finally, chapter five will combine the above findings in order to answer the formerly defined question. Possible solutions (existing and recommended) are described and thoughts on theories of change are made explicit.