International Day of Democracy 2023: OiEau's initiatives to promote participative management of water resources

Published on 09/15/23

Every year on 15 September, the International Day of Democracy invites us to reflect on the importance of democracy in global governance. The International Office for Water ( OiEau) promotes participatory democracy and international cooperation in the management of water resources.

Hydrodiplomacy perfectly embodies the essence of democracy in the context of water management. The bilateral and multilateral agreements resulting from these discussions guarantee equitable, transparent and peaceful management of transboundary water resources. OiEau encourages this open and participatory collaboration, which promotes not only water security, but also regional stability and prosperity.

The United Nations Water Conference: a global dialogue for democracy

The United Nations Water Conference brought together stakeholders from all over the world, including OiEau and theInternational Network of Basin Organisations (INBO). This global platform provided a space where countries could share their experiences and best practices in water management. This event has fostered dialogue between nations and shows how democracy can shape international cooperation to tackle complex water challenges, through a plan of action and commitments. To find out more, read INBO's report, which sets out the key messages, commitments and recommendations it put forward at the event.

InnWater and GOVAQUA European projects

OiEau is also demonstrating its commitment to democracy through concrete projects. The European InnWater and GOVAQUA initiatives illustrate how cooperation between states can stimulate innovation in water resource management.

Integrated Water Resource Management

Democracy is also reflected in the integrated management of water resources. This approach encompasses the consideration of all aspects of water, involving all stakeholders. It ensures that water is managed in a way that reflects everyone's needs, be they environmental, social or economic.

Few examples of projects

InnWater - Promoting social innovation to renew multi-level and cross sector water governance
EUROPE - France, Italy, Spain, Sweden, Hungary, United Kingdom
March 2023 – February 2026
European Union
Discover the project
GOVAQUA: Innovations in governance for a transition to sustainable and equitable water use in Europe
EUROPE - Finland, Germany, Netherlands, Spain, United Kingdom, France, Romania
March 2023
European Union
Discover the project
International Network of Basin Organisations - INBO
WORLD
1994
National or transboundary basin organisations, national administrations in charge of water resources
Discover the project