Policies on water issues

UNESCO takes an interdisciplinary approach to water issues, combining both the scientific and social aspects involved. Its different programmes cover better management of water resources through enhanced scientific and technological knowledge and improved fresh water supply and quality through capacity building. Decision-making and conflict-prevention tools are also being developed for government-level players in regions where the ability to share water resources is primordial for peace.

Policy-relevant information from UNESCO's water-related projects and programmes can be accessed via the links below.

From Potential Conflict to Co-operation Potential

The challenge of sharing water resources

Within this UN-wide initiative, UNESCO has launched the project From Potential Conflict to Co-operation Potential. While this effort is relevant to all the challenges it addresses more specifically the challenge of sharing water resources primarily from the point of view of governments, and develops decision-making and conflict prevention tools for the future.

In parallel Green Cross International initiated the Water for Peace Project to enhance the awareness and participation of local authorities and the public in water conflict resolution and integrated management by facilitating more effective dialogue among all stakeholders.

UNESCO and Green Cross International decided to mutually support each other. By joining forces, they have reached a wider constituency and forged more effective links between and among governments and local authorities, the private sector, academics, scientists and civil society.

UNESCO’s International Hydrological Programme (IHP)

UNESCO's intergovernmental scientific co-operative programme in water resources

It aims at the improvement of the scientific and technological basis for the development of methods for the rational management of water resources, including the protection of the environment.

World Water Assessment Programme (WWAP) for development, capacity building and the environment

This UN-wide programme seeks to develop the tools and skills needed to achieve a better understanding of those basic processes, management practices and policies that will help improve the supply and quality of global freshwater resources.