Protection of freshwater resources constitutes an important theme of the UNESCO Moscow Office. Undertaken activities contribute to the sustainable water resources management and conservation of water and associated ecosystems.

Thus, the Office concentrates its interventions on fostering capacity-building, networking and regional and international cooperation in the field of freshwater. In this regard, the UNESCO Moscow Office closely cooperates with the International Hydrological Programme (IHP).

Meeting of Responsible Representatives of the UNESCO IHP National Committees of CIS Countries organized in 2008 (Saint-Petersburg, Russian Federation) formulated important recommendations concerning top-priority goals and developed a workplan representing the priorities of the CIS countries for the seventh phase of IHP. In addition, it identified main themes in the IHP VII structure which are of a scientific and practical interest to all the CIS countries. Impact of climate change and economic activity on hydrological cycle and consequent influence on water resources, problems of water management, transboundary water and non-biodegradable materials transfer, management of groundwater systems' response to global changes and improvement of hydrological network etc. are among main issues and concerns for upcoming implementation.   

The Natural Sciences Sector of the UNESCO Moscow Office works to promote integrated water and land management. Special attention is paid to catalyzing ecological measures for protection and remediation of catchment processes in Eastern Polesie region (Belarus/Russia) and Prut River Basin (Republic of Moldova).

A crucial part of the freshwater activities is devoted to an implementation of the Living Volga programme. The programme contributes to protection and conservation of water and wetlands ecosystems and strengthens ecological education and awareness in the Volga Basin area.