This book presents a thorough exploration of water rights in the context of growing water scarcity and competition. The book uses case studies from across the globe to identify the range of water rights and bases for claims on the resource; presents local experiences in negotiating water rights; and discusses opportunities to empower farmers in water resource management. The introductory chapter reviews conceptual frameworks that can help to better manage and understand conflicts over scarce water. The following chapters present cases from Nepal, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Indonesia, Burkina Faso, Spain and New Mexico. The book concludes with a chapter on implications for research and action.