Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM)

Integrated water resources management (IWRM) by river basin is the main tool for effective and sustainable management promoted by OiEau worldwide.

The approach naturally varies significantly from one country and one river basin to the next, adapting to distinctive local geographical, political, environmental, economic, social and cultural factors.

The IWRM approach, when applied in a context-relevant manner, ensures a better response to the needs and challenges of stakeholders (public authorities, economic stakeholders, civil society, etc.).

The implementation of basin-specific IWRM activities is supported and strengthened through:

• Assistance with the IWRM pillars: institutional support, planning and investment programmes, participation by users, water policy funding, data sharing.
• Contribution to the development and conciliation of the different uses of water – drinking water and sanitation, agriculture, fishing, hydroelectricity, industries, river navigation, tourism – in a way that respects ecosystems and aquatic biodiversity.
• Adaptation to climate change.
• The development of Nature-Based Solutions (NBS), green infrastructure, management of demand, etc.
• The interlinking of water governance at all levels (national, regional, local and transboundary authorities, and basin organisations).