Guatemala introduces comprehensive Water Law to regulate resources

In Guatemala, the government of Bernardo Arévalo has introduced Initiative 6816, a comprehensive Water Law aimed at regulating water resources. Proposed through the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (MARN), the 215-article initiative seeks to fulfill constitutional mandates regarding the public nature of water. Key provisions include the creation of a national water superintendency, a registry of usage rights, regulation of groundwater, protection of water sources, and wastewater treatment.

The bill is currently undergoing analysis within the Congress, specifically within the Commission on Environment, Ecology, and Natural Resources. While the initiative was developed through dialogues with social, indigenous, and economic sectors, it faces scrutiny. The business sector, represented by CACIF, has requested a technical table to review the content, citing concerns over potential negative impacts if the law is passed without modifications.