During the late medieval period, the Rhine-Meuse delta experienced many dynamic interactions between floods and the people inhabiting it. This thesis explores the impact of floods on this region,...Show moreDuring the late medieval period, the Rhine-Meuse delta experienced many dynamic interactions between floods and the people inhabiting it. This thesis explores the impact of floods on this region, focusing on water management-related objects and their implications for the people of the past and future, primarily through archaeological data. However, data and methodologies from other disciplines were also vital to this research. Impactful late medieval floods in the Rhine-Meuse delta are well documented, with many (primary) sources referencing them. While less numerous, archaeological findings related to these floods are extremely valuable. Through the databases of Archis and DANS, archaeological complexes associated with flood protection measures in the delta during the late medieval period were discovered and analysed. This analysis revealed an unequal distribution of archaeological research and highlighted a sizable gap in data concerning the historical evolution of water management-related objects. Late medieval floods also had a profound impact on the Dutch cultural landscape, both directly and indirectly, through the implementation of various control measures. The socioeconomic impacts of these floods played a big part in changing the Dutch cultural, military-strategic, and political landscape. During this period, water management-related objects became increasingly more advanced, with the establishment and professionalisation of water boards and the general improvements in building techniques. The archaeological record shows that these general improvements are indeed present but were more nuanced. Understanding the successes and failures of late medieval water management-related objects provides a history of contemporary water management challenges. After all, climate change during the late medieval period already impacted the water management-related objects of the delta. By integrating (medieval) ideas and innovating through experimentation and a multidisciplinary approach, it is possible to deduce past floods' effects to inform climate change policies. This thesis resulted in an overview of the current knowledge regarding water management in the late medieval Rhine-Meuse delta, with an analysis of the implementations of past approaches and ideas linked to climate change. These results can be used as a starting point for new research. They can also offer insights for policymakers and other stakeholders in debates surrounding water management and climate change. Additionally, this thesis outlines potential focus areas for archaeologists investigating late medieval floods in the region, which can enhance the understanding of water management objects from this period and beyond.Show less
This thesis looks at the case of Jordan and argues that corporatisation and privatisation efforts lead to improved success in economic efficiency, environmental sustainability, and social equity...Show moreThis thesis looks at the case of Jordan and argues that corporatisation and privatisation efforts lead to improved success in economic efficiency, environmental sustainability, and social equity for water management when sufficient regulatory capabilities exist. The success of water privatisation is disputed, both politically and academically. So far, evidence is inconclusive. This thesis develops an analytical framework for examining how privatisation may contribute to success in water management. Jordan is running dry, both financially and in terms of water. Given these circumstances, efficient water management is important. Jordan aims to solve its problems by involving the private sector. In applying the framework to Jordan, this work both establishes the validity of the framework and simultaneously shows that involving the private sector can be an appropriate approach for Jordan to tackle its water management issues. This insight has concrete policy implications: smaller scale private partnerships may be more appropriate than larger projects where less regulatory capacity exists. Even as they may have less impact, they can improve efficiency and are easier and less controversial to implement.Show less