This multi-actor complexity means taking into account the different perceptions with respect to the problems, interests and positions of the stakeholders, which can be addressed by involving stakeholders across the water chain, related sectors and levels of government in an iterative dialogue process. The adoption of effective policy instruments could also help to remedy this challenge. The water cycle generates important externalities in domains that are critical for development: health, agriculture, land-use and spatial planning, poverty alleviation and energy. Policy making in these areas tends to be done in silos, further improvement, therefore, is often needed to ensure coherent, holistic and integrated consultation, participation and co-ordination of stakeholders.