UNESCO International Water Conference - 13 and 14 May 2019

Leveraging the trans-sectoral management of water resources for sustainable water security and peace

Looking from space, satellite imagery shows the abundant masses of water that characterize the Earth. Yet, less than 1% account for usable fresh water.

Almost all human activities depend on water, be it food production, energy generation, industry or even recreation. Water management and governance affect the health of humans and ecosystems, and reflect the conditions of gender equality, education and cultural diversity of a region. Water resources are critical to sustainable development and poverty reduction.

Once more, UNESCO brings together its actors and partners to share innovative solutions to contemporary challenges. Thanks to its experience and expertise in the fields of Education, Sciences (both natural, and social and human sciences), Culture and Communication, UNESCO contributes through holistic, sustainable approaches to resolve issues impacting the governance and management of water.

Objectives of the conference

• Bringing everyone around the table to discuss trans-sectoral approaches to the governance and management of water resources.
• Launching a Call for Action to foster, embrace, and adopt trans-sectoral water management.
• Sharing good practices enabling participation, transparency and information-sharing.
• Evidencing of the importance of interdisciplinarity and the integration of sciences to support Member States in reaching the goals of the water-related international agendas.