International Hydrological Programme

International Hydrological Programme
Name	International Hydrological Programme
Caption	Administered by UNESCO
Formation	1975
Type	Intergovernmental scientific programme
Headquarters	Paris, France
Parent organization	United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
Website	https://en.unesco.org/themes/water-security/hydrology

International Hydrological Programme. It is the sole intergovernmental scientific programme of the United Nations system dedicated entirely to water resources. Established under the auspices of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, it provides a global platform for cooperation in hydrology and water management. The programme facilitates research, education, and capacity-building to address critical water challenges worldwide.

Overview

The programme operates as a pivotal mechanism within the United Nations system for advancing the scientific understanding of the water cycle. Its work is intrinsically linked to achieving global sustainability goals, particularly those outlined in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. By fostering collaboration among Member States, it supports the development of effective policies for water security and the mitigation of water-related disasters. The initiative is closely aligned with other key UN water entities, including UN-Water and the World Water Assessment Programme.

History and establishment

The origins trace back to the International Hydrological Decade, a pioneering global scientific effort launched in 1965 and coordinated by UNESCO. The success of this decade-long initiative demonstrated the need for a permanent intergovernmental framework. Consequently, the International Hydrological Programme was formally established by the UNESCO General Conference in 1975. Its evolution has been marked by successive multi-year phases, such as IHP-VII, which focused on water dependencies in social-ecological systems, and the current IHP-IX, addressing science for a water secure world.

Objectives and focus areas

Primary objectives include promoting international cooperation in hydrological research and strengthening the capacity of Member States in water sciences. A core focus is on understanding the impacts of climate change on freshwater resources and enhancing resilience to droughts and floods. The programme also prioritizes the management of transboundary aquifers and river basins, fostering dialogue through instruments like the UNESCO Water Family. Key thematic areas encompass groundwater, water quality, eco-hydrology, and the critical role of water education.

Organizational structure

The governing body is the Intergovernmental Council, composed of representatives from Member States elected by the UNESCO General Conference. The council sets the programme's direction and approves its plan and budget. Day-to-day operations are managed by the IHP Secretariat, headquartered at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris. Implementation relies on a decentralized network including National Committees, regional offices like the UNESCO Office in Jakarta, and collaborating centers such as the International Centre for Water Resources and Global Change.

Major projects and initiatives

Notable initiatives include the World's Large Rivers Initiative, which addresses the integrated management of major river systems like the Amazon River and the Mekong River. The Groundwater Resources Assessment under the Pressures of Humanity and Climate Change project provides critical data on aquifer systems worldwide. The programme also leads the UNESCO-IHE Institute for Water Education, a key institution for postgraduate water education. Furthermore, it supports the FRIEND-Water program, which facilitates regional hydrological analysis across continents.

Impact and recognition

The programme has significantly advanced global hydrological science, notably through its pivotal role in developing the Map of the World's Transboundary Aquifers. Its work underpins international agreements such as the 1997 United Nations Watercourses Convention. By building scientific capacity in developing nations, it has empowered countries across Africa and Asia to better manage their water resources. The initiative is widely recognized as an essential pillar of the global effort to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 6 on clean water and sanitation for all.

Category:United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization Category:Water organizations Category:1975 establishments