A report by the Transnational Institute highlights the failures of water privatization in cities worldwide and advocates for “Remunicipalization”. Buenos Aires and Paris, two case studies from the video, are good examples of public authorities reclaiming back water services from failed attempts at privatization. Privatization in both cities resulted in significant tariff increases and corporate profits with no subsequent improvements in services to the public. Following remunicipalization, both cities developed innovative programs, such as the worker cooperatives in Argentina connecting an additional 700,000 users from low income areas, and Paris’ water solidarity allocations and public-public partnerships with other cities. The report recognizes the challenges involved in remunicipalization but emphasizes the need for transparency and people-centered approach to urban water supply.
By Transnational Institute, Municipal Services Projects and Corporate Europe Observatory
An inspiring video animation about how cities are reversing water privatisation to regain public control.
This video explores water 'remunicipalisation' in Buenos Aires and Paris, looking at the challenges and benefits of reclaiming public water. It calls on citizens worldwide to mobilize around this option. Do it! Remunicipalisation Works! The video was produced by Transnational Institute (TNI), Municipal Services Projects (MSP) and Corporate Europe Observatory(CEO).
Find more case studies on the transition from private to public water provision (Dar es Salaam, Tanzania; Hamilton, Canada; and a national-level experiment in Malaysia) in the book available for free download here.
