International Hydrological Programme

International Hydrological Programme is a UNESCO-led programme that aims to improve the scientific and technological basis for the development of water resources management, with a focus on sustainable development and environmental protection. The programme works closely with World Meteorological Organization, Food and Agriculture Organization, and United Nations Environment Programme to address global water challenges. It also collaborates with International Association of Hydrological Sciences, International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage, and World Water Council to promote water security and hydrological research. The programme's activities are guided by the principles of Agenda 21, Millennium Development Goals, and Sustainable Development Goals.

Introduction

The International Hydrological Programme is an intergovernmental programme that was established in 1975 to facilitate international cooperation in the field of hydrology and water resources management. The programme is supported by UNESCO Member States, including Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Japan, Russia, United Kingdom, and United States. It works closely with European Union, African Union, and Asian Development Bank to promote water cooperation and hydrological research in different regions. The programme also collaborates with International Union for Conservation of Nature, World Wildlife Fund, and The Nature Conservancy to address the water-environment nexus.

History and Development

The International Hydrological Programme was established in response to the growing need for international cooperation in the field of hydrology and water resources management. The programme's development was influenced by the United Nations Water Conference held in Mar del Plata, Argentina in 1977, which highlighted the importance of water resources management for sustainable development. The programme has since undergone several phases of development, with each phase focusing on specific themes and objectives, such as hydrological research, water resources management, and capacity building. The programme has worked closely with International Hydrological Association, World Council of Civil Engineers, and International Association for Hydro-Environment Engineering and Research to promote hydrological engineering and water infrastructure development.

Objectives and Scope

The International Hydrological Programme has several objectives, including improving the scientific and technological basis for water resources management, promoting sustainable development and environmental protection, and enhancing water security and hydrological research. The programme's scope includes hydrological research, water resources management, capacity building, and water cooperation. The programme works closely with European Space Agency, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and Indian Space Research Organisation to promote the use of remote sensing and geographic information systems in hydrological research. It also collaborates with World Bank, Asian Development Bank, and African Development Bank to support water infrastructure development and water resources management in different regions.

Implementation and Activities

The International Hydrological Programme implements its objectives through a range of activities, including hydrological research, capacity building, and water cooperation. The programme supports research projects and fellowships in the field of hydrology and water resources management, and provides technical assistance to UNESCO Member States. The programme also organizes international conferences and workshops to promote hydrological research and water cooperation, such as the World Water Forum and the International Conference on Hydrology. The programme works closely with International Association of Meteorology and Atmospheric Sciences, World Federation of Engineering Organizations, and International Council for Science to promote interdisciplinary research and science-policy interface.

Organization and Governance

The International Hydrological Programme is governed by the UNESCO Intergovernmental Council, which is composed of representatives from UNESCO Member States. The programme is implemented by the UNESCO Secretariat, which is headquartered in Paris, France. The programme also has a Bureau and a Secretariat, which are responsible for the day-to-day management of the programme. The programme works closely with United Nations Development Programme, United Nations Environment Programme, and Food and Agriculture Organization to promote sustainable development and environmental protection. It also collaborates with European Commission, African Union Commission, and Association of Southeast Asian Nations to support regional integration and water cooperation.

Achievements and Impact

The International Hydrological Programme has made significant contributions to the field of hydrology and water resources management, including the development of hydrological research and water resources management guidelines and tools. The programme has also supported the establishment of national hydrological services and water resources management institutions in several countries, including South Africa, Brazil, and China. The programme's activities have had a positive impact on water security and hydrological research in different regions, and have contributed to the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals and Sustainable Development Goals. The programme works closely with International Committee of the Red Cross, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, and World Health Organization to address the water-sanitation-hygiene nexus and promote humanitarian response to water-related disasters. Category:Hydrology