Abstract

Global water conflicts are increasing due to climate stress, rising demand, and declining availability. Conflict resolution requires determination of their causes. This study aims to establish and analyze the main drivers of water conflicts worldwide through a systematic literature review of a total of 178 studies through PRISMA methodology in addition to a qualitative and territorial analysis. The review showed that the most used methodology in water conflict studies is qualitative. The territorial analysis found that these studies predominate in South America and Asia, in countries such as Chile, Brazil, Peru, and Iran. Key drivers include water scarcity, inequitable access, economic activities, governance and quality issues, particularly in South America, South Asia, and Africa. Chile presents the largest number of studies reviewed. Factors associated to governance was the most influential in water conflicts. Most studies are in areas affected by drought or industrialization and concentrated in developing countries. Integrated Water Resources Management appears as a potential tool for addressing underlying conflict drivers. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences 2025.