STOCKHOLM, Aug. 30 (Xinhua) -- Stephen McCaffrey, trailblazer in international water law, received the 2017 Stockholm Water Prize on Wednesday in Stockholm, for his unparalleled contribution to the evolution and progressive realization of international water law.
The prize was presented to Stephen McCaffrey by H.M. Carl XVI Gustaf, King of Sweden, at a ceremony in Stockholm City Hall during the ongoing World Water Week.
In its citation, the Stockholm Water Prize Nominating Committee recognized McCaffrey's "path-breaking leadership and legal scholarship in international water law. He has made a unique contribution in three specific areas: his seminal work on Treaty negotiation; his major scholarly works, including his book "The Law of International Watercourses" and; his leadership providing expert legal advice, wise counsel, training and facilitation of complex negotiations with a wide range of stakeholders."
On receiving the Prize, McCaffrey said: "I accept this very special award not only on my own behalf, but also on the behalf of the many women and men who work so hard in the field to ensure that fresh water can be brought to people in ways that do not strain international relations, but which in fact affirmatively produce win-win solutions for countries and people on the ground in accordance with law".
According to a press release from the World Water Week, Stephen McCaffrey, Distinguished Professor of Law at the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law, in Sacramento, California, is the single most respected authority on International Water Law. His work continues to influence scholars, legal practitioners and policy-makers and contribute to the sustainable and peaceful management of shared waters.
"Cooperation over shared waters is becoming increasingly important, as we witness higher demand coupled with growing scarcity. Stephen McCaffrey is a true inspiration for us in this area, as well as and an important guide, through his works and his wisdom", said Stockholm International Water Institute's Executive Director Torgny Holmgren.
