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Recent scientific advances have significantly enhanced our understanding of water systems and the complex challenges they face. Innovations in technology and interdisciplinary research have provided new tools and methodologies for managing water resources more effectively. However, despite these advancements, there is a pressing need to elevate the profile of science in addressing global water challenges. Raising awareness and integrating scientific knowledge into policy and practice are crucial for developing sustainable solutions to ensure water security.

Considering UNESCO’s mandate on science and the need to elevate the role of science in addressing complex water challenges, the Intergovernmental Hydrological Programme (IHP) has been instrumental in translating scientific advancements into practical applications. Recognising the critical role of science in making informed decisions, and in line with UNESCO IHP-IX on “Science for a Water Secure World in a Changing Environment,” UNESCO aims to accelerate the recognition of scientific frontiers and their role in solving current water challenges. Additionally, UNESCO seeks to enhance the capacities of its member states to translate scientific knowledge into practical applications.

As part of the 50th anniversary celebrations of IHP and reflecting on the past 60 years since the Hydrological Decade, UNESCO envisions an accelerated advancement of scientific frontiers in water science. The major milestones and contributions of IHP in the advancement and application of water sciences will be reviewed, considering the future direction of hydrological sciences in addressing complex and interrelated water challenges. Furthermore, the impacts of the Programme at national, regional, and global levels in addressing water-related challenges for a water-secure world will be mapped.

Re-imagining its role in the future, IHP seeks to provide a comprehensive, state-of-the-art overview of scientific advances, including innovations and technologies in the water sector. Furthermore, IHP envisions a future that will ensure the verification and accessibility of up-to-date scientific advances to provide solutions to water challenges. IHP also aims to address the inter-sectoral, systemic, integrative, and transdisciplinary nature of water challenges through the following points of action:

• Highlight and inventorise scientific advances and innovations in water resources management.
• Provide pathways for translating scientific advances into practical applications.
• Support capacity-building efforts for science-based assessment with pilot case studies demonstrating the applicability and scalability of these scientific advances.
• Establish a feedback mechanism between the scientific community and end-users.

Objectives:

• To elaborate on capacity-building efforts for science-based assessment with pilot case studies demonstrating the applicability and scalability of these scientific advances, a session is organised at the Spain Pavilion to highlight some cases for best practices.

Opening session & moderator:

Anil Mishra. Chief of the Hydrological Systems, Climate Change and Adaptation Section. UNESCO.

Speakers:

• Leen Govaerts. Director of Water and Transition. VITO.
• Callist Tindimugaya. Ministry of Water and Environment. Uganda.
• John Pomeroy. Chair on Mountain Hydrology. United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
• Max Andonirina Fontaine. Minister of Environment and Sustainable Development. Republic of Madagascar.

Moderator for Interactive Q&A session:

Ruth Nguma. Associate Programme Specialist. UNESCO.

Closing remarks:

Elena López Gunn. Senior Research Fellow. Elcano Royal Institute.