Unequal Territories and Water Access Policies in the Brazilian Northeast

Objective: The present work aims to analyze the territorial inequalities of public policies for access to water through the territorial approach. Theoretical framework: This study is conducted based on theoretical reflections about geographic knowledge about space and territory, the latter as primordial in the analysis of power relations in the management, access and use of water. The theoretical framework uses the contributions of some of the authors who discuss the territory, among them: Haesbaert (2004), Folcault (1989) Saquet (2010) and Araújo (2000). Method: It is based on the use of data collection with mapping and theoretical discussion. It seeks to analyze the inequalities and diversities of territorialities in the territory(ies), inquiries are made about territorial development through public policies mediated with the contributions of geographic science, data collection on the construction of cisterns is used in the northeast of Brazil, as well as the mapping of areas most affected by droughts in the northeast. Results and conclusion: As a result, the theoretical analysis of approaches to territorial development and public policies allied to geographic knowledge permeates the production of space and the phenomena caused in rural areas. Research implications: We understand that the territory is historically built by power relations, the territorial approach to development arises from the proposition of working on intra-regional inequalities with a view to generating social participation and, in parallel, governance of social subjects with power public. Originality/value: This research has social, economic and scientific value due to the originality of the discussions presented.