His research project adopts a theory-informed empirical research approach based on grounded theory and centered on comparative case study investigation of water user associations in at least two study areas in South Africa. It investigates the sociopolitical interplay of newly established water user associations and rural water users in South Africa. His main focus lies on democratic principles of participation and representation of marginalized poor people within newly established, local institutions of water management.
Janosch points out that: “the degree of practical application of these basic principles has in turn severe consequences for decision making processes over water contorl, distribution, access and use. Thus, it greatly influences local livelihood strategies. Accordingly, my main research interest rests on a tripod of questions: first, how have the institutionalised IWRM policy benefitted livelihoods in rural communities and semi-urban regions? Second, how can this socio-political interplay between people and newly established institutions be better understood? Third, which theoretical inferences can be drawn from the outcomes?”