MULTIDIMENSIONAL THEORETICAL MODEL FOR THE EVALUATION OF PUBLIC POLICIES ON RAINWATER HARVESTING IN SEMI-ARID REGIONS

Abstract

This study aimed to propose a multidimensional theoretical model for evaluating public policies on rainwater harvesting in semi-arid regions. Methodologically, it is an applied study with a qualitative approach and a theoretical-conceptual design, developed through a critical and integrative review of the national and international literature on public policies, water governance, sustainability, and rainwater harvesting. The results revealed that existing evaluation models focus predominantly on technical or operational aspects, neglecting legal, institutional, social, cultural, and governance-related factors. To address this gap, a framework was developed comprising six analytical dimensions: legal and regulatory; institutional and governance; socioeconomic; environmental and technical; cultural; and sustainability. These dimensions incorporate indicators, observable variables, and verification sources aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals, enabling more comprehensive assessments of public policy effectiveness. It is concluded that the proposed model strengthens water governance by providing an interdisciplinary tool capable of supporting the planning, implementation, monitoring, and improvement of public policies aimed at enhancing water security in semi-arid regions.