The 10th World Water Forum took place in Bali, Indonesia, from May 18 to 24, 2024, under the theme “Water for shared prosperity.”
Article & photography by © Damien Lafon
This event, organized by the World Water Council in collaboration with the Indonesian government, represents a unique platform where the global water community and policymakers can collaborate to find sustainable solutions to global water challenges.
An internationally significant forum
Since its inception in 1997, the World Water Forum has evolved into a pivotal event, bringing together participants from diverse backgrounds, including political representatives, multilateral institutions, academics, civil society, and the private sector. This year, the Forum expects thousands of participants from around the world to debate, share ideas, and develop political commitments aimed at addressing issues related to water and sanitation (World Water Forum)
Forum objectives and themes
The Forum is structured around three main processes: thematic, political, and regional.
- Thematic process: This addresses global water challenges by proposing concrete solutions to be debated during the Forum. Themes include water security, resilience, water financing, water quality and health, as well as water for humans and nature.
- Political process: This offers a platform for dialogue among elected officials at all levels, from heads of state to local authorities, to discuss policies and actions necessary for improving water management.
- Regional process: This provides specific perspectives from different regions, based on their local needs and particular challenges in water management.
Activities and events
In addition to debate sessions and conferences, the Forum also includes an exhibition and a fair, allowing various stakeholders to showcase their contributions and innovations. Cultural events, such as the Water Carnival and the Balinese water purification ceremony, are also organized to celebrate and raise awareness of the importance of water in culture and society (Bali International).
International collaboration
Loïc Fauchon, President of the World Water Council, emphasized the importance of this event in reaffirming that water and sanitation are political priorities at all levels. He also highlighted the necessity of an alliance between innovation, governance, and financing to bring concrete solutions to the millions of people deprived of access to potable water.
Indonesia, under the leadership of President Joko Widodo, plays a central role in organizing this Forum, aiming to make this event a resounding success that will mark the history of global water management.
The 10th World Water Forum in Bali represents a valuable opportunity to unite global efforts towards the sustainable management of water resources. By bringing together experts, policymakers, and civil society actors, the Forum seeks to develop solutions that will ensure universal access to water and sanitation, contributing to shared prosperity for all.
For more information on the Forum and its activities, you can visit the official website of the World Water Forum (World Water Council) (Bali International).
