New Tactics Logo Blue
Tactics
Empowering Community-Based Water User Associations for Sustainable Water Management

Oxfam-GB addressed issues with Vietnam’s water systems by forming and building the capacity of community-based user groups. These groups effectively ensure the quality and longevity of infrastructure while maximizing government investment and community contributions. The process also raises awareness among people about their rights, such as the right to form and participate in groups that protect human rights and fundamental freedoms.

Challenges with Government-Managed Water Systems

The government had previously invested in similar water systems in other areas where community-based water users associations were not established. However, high connection fees, excessive water charges, and untimely repairs discouraged households from using these systems, leading to inadequate water management. To address this, Oxfam-GB piloted two community-based water management systems in two disaster-prone communes in the Mekong Delta.

Forming Community Water Users Associations

A water users association was formed for each proposed water system, involving around 100–150 households. All users received information about the project funds, their responsibilities, and roles. These households participated in designing the pipeline system, discussing regulations, determining contributions, and choosing representatives. Each association selected five key representatives.

The representatives monitor construction progress, costs, and material quality on behalf of the association. They can take immediate action or notify partners if construction does not proceed as planned. Once the water system was completed, the community association took over water distribution, maintenance, and repairs, collecting fees to cover operational costs. Regular meetings with users provide updates on water system management and financial disclosures.

Achievements and Advocacy for a Broader Implementation

Through this model, community water associations established affordable water pricing (0.1 USD/m3) and increased community ownership over design, operation, and maintenance. Additionally, available local technicians ensure timely repairs when needed. Oxfam-GB advocates for the government to adopt this community-based model in small-scale infrastructure projects and, eventually, expand it to larger-scale initiatives.

Typically, construction projects are government-managed with limited community consultation, especially with marginalized groups. This model demonstrates the long-term benefits of community participation in infrastructure projects. Community-based user associations empower local people to actively address community issues, utilize resources effectively, and strengthen civil society.

What we can learn from this Tactic:

The community-based water management model in Vietnam demonstrates how empowering local user groups can improve infrastructure sustainability, efficiency, and community ownership. By involving community members in planning, monitoring, and maintaining the water systems, Oxfam-GB fostered a sense of accountability and ensured long-term functionality. This approach can be adapted to other contexts where local resources and public systems—like healthcare, education, or sanitation—are managed with limited community involvement. By establishing user associations and prioritizing community input, organizations can promote local empowerment, increase accountability, and create a model that governments might replicate in broader infrastructure and service-based projects.
New Tactics in Human Rights does not advocate for or endorse specific tactics, policies or issues.

Related Tactics