IWRA’s 18th World Water Congress: Launching a Global Dialogue on "Water for All: Harmony between Humans and Nature"

[Beijing, China, 11 September 2023] - The International Water Resources Association (IWRA) is proud to announce the commencement of the 18th World Water Congress. With the theme "Water for All: Harmony between Humans and Nature," this Congress aims to address the critical balance between human water needs and the preservation of our planet's natural water ecosystems. Water is undeniably the essence of life, serving as a fundamental resource that sustains not only human civilisation but also the delicate web of ecosystems that make up our planet. As we pursue progress, we must not forget that the health of these ecosystems relies on the availability and quality of water. This interdependence is at the heart of this Congress's theme.

IWRA wishes to extend its heartfelt gratitude to the Ministry of Water Resources of the People's Republic of China, our official host and sponsor, and the General Institute of Water Resources and Hydropower Planning and Design, our co-organisers. Their support and partnership have been instrumental in bringing together experts and stakeholders from around the world to address these vital water challenges.

The Congress will feature a diverse array of events and sessions, including:

• 4 High-Level Panels: These panels will delve into crucial topics such as the Water-Economy-Ecology nexus under a changing environment, Resilient Water Infrastructures and Global Water Security, Water Resources Management and Best Practices, and Water Ecosystem Conservation and Restoration.
• 73 Special Sessions: Partnerships with organisations like UNESCO, WWF, ADB, GWP, INBO, TNC, IAWL, and SUEZ ensure a rich variety of special sessions.
• 36 Regular Thematic Sessions: These sessions, featuring 424 oral presentations, will provide in-depth exploration of key water-related topics.
• 479 Posters: A visual showcase of innovative research and ideas in the field.
• 13 Side Events: Events hosted in collaboration with esteemed organisations including WWC, GWP, ADB, AWC, IHP China National Committee, and MWR.
• Approximately 2000 Registered Attendees: Bringing together a global community of experts and stakeholders.
• Representation from Over 65 Countries: Ensuring diverse perspectives and experiences.

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The theme, "Water for All: Harmony between Humans and Nature," underscores the urgent need to recognise the interconnectivity of our relationship with water. The delicate balance between human water needs and the preservation of water ecosystems is a global imperative.

As we embark on this Congress, we are reminded that the health of our planet and the well-being of all its inhabitants depend on our ability to find this equilibrium. To achieve this, we must prioritise sustainable water management practices, enact robust legislation, educate future generations, foster collaboration, invest in innovative technologies, and respect indigenous knowledge. IWRA is at the forefront of this mission. With a history dating back to 1971, IWRA is a globally recognised non-profit organisation dedicated to addressing pressing water challenges. IWRA bridges the gap between science and policy, fostering a collaborative approach to enhance the understanding of water issues and promote sustainable water use and management worldwide.

IWRA’s commitment aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, aiming to make water resources research and scientific knowledge more accessible to practitioners, policymakers, and the public. Through education, research, and information exchange, IWRA empowers informed decision-making and effective water management.

?In conclusion, IWRA’s 18th World Water Congress is a testament to our collective responsibility to safeguard the precious resource of water. It is a reminder that our fate is intricately tied to the health of our planet, and it is within our hands to ensure a harmonious coexistence with nature for generations to come.

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About IWRA: The International Water Resources Association (IWRA) is a globally recognised non-profit, non-governmental organisation founded in 1971. IWRA serves as a knowledge and research-based forum dedicated to addressing pressing water challenges, with a strong emphasis on collaboration between science and policy. IWRA's overarching goal is to enhance the understanding of water issues and foster sustainable water use and management worldwide. Through education, research, and information exchange, IWRA strives to facilitate informed decision-making and promote effective water management.

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