Introduction

This introductory chapter presents the book’s research problem and objectives, centred on the interrelations between global democratization processes and the politics of water. It explains the adoption of a long-term historical perspective grounded on a sociological approach in inter- and transdisciplinary dialogues with diverse knowledges relevant to the research problem. It provides information about the research activities that led to the publication and refers to the influence that the author’s personal experiences with brutal dictatorships implemented in the name of Western “democracy” have in the choice of subject and in the outspoken position in defence of substantive democracy. It also discusses the main concepts chosen to articulate the arguments, focused on a critique of neoprivatist water politics and the support for water politics grounded on the principles of solidarity, justice, inclusion, and the defence of human rights, including the right to water and essential water services. The chapter clarifies why the book argues against water privatization, as it is a component of the global neoliberal political project unleashed since the 1970s–80s, which has eroded democratization processes worldwide and contributed to worsening structural inequalities and injustices, often because the implementation of these politics took place through dictatorial, undemocratic political regimes. It justifies the author’s support for global struggles and resistances against neoprivatist water politics, as these initiatives may contribute to the much-needed emergence of more humane, just, and solidaristic socio-ecological orders.