Overview 

On the occasion of the International Women's Day the IAHR Task Force on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and the IAHR Technical Committee on Education and Professional Development (EPD) Committee is organising a Session on Diversity Equity and Inclusion during the 13th International Conference on Fluvial Hydraulics (River Flow) in Thessaloniki, Greece.

The session offers a supportive and inclusive space to strengthen the river science community and contribute to more equitable, innovative, and effective water research and practice.

The River Flow Community

The River Flow community brings together diverse expertise in fluvial hydraulics, river engineering, and water management. Yet, like many technical fields, water sciences continue to face persistent challenges related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) across research teams, fieldwork practices, education, and professional experiences.
Building on the DEI session introduced at River Flow 2024 in Liverpool, the IAHR DEI and EPD Committees, along with River Flow 2026 Conference Organisers invite the attendees to the conference to engage in a participatory and reflective workshop that deepens this ongoing dialogue. Using guided walking activities (inspired by the Privilege Walk method), the session will create space for participants to explore how personal backgrounds, institutional structures, and professional cultures influence access, opportunity, and belonging in river science and engineering.
Participants will collectively examine who is represented in the water sector, whose knowledge and perspectives are valued, and how power and decision-making shape outcomes for rivers and the communities connected to them. The workshop is designed to help participants recognize structural and cultural barriers, reflect on their own professional contexts, and identify ways to actively overcome exclusionary practices in water-related work.
Moving beyond reflection, the session links to professional practice. Topics include inclusive approaches to fieldwork and laboratory environments, collaboration across cultures and geographies, engagement with local communities, and equitable career development within the water sector. The session will facilitate peer exchange across career stages, and the development of diversity, equity and inclusion concepts in water. 

Who and What is this for?  

Who is this session for? 
For everyone – whether you are new to DEI conversations or have been actively engaged in such work for some time. It is designed for researchers, practitioners, leaders, students, and organizers who want to better understand how inclusive practices strengthen our professional community.

What are the benefits for attending? 
Other than satisfying one’s curiosity to learn what DEI is, attending will allow one to better understand how DEI impacts their daily work. One can reflect on their own role and influence within professional spaces and connect with others interested in building a more equitable community. It is a step towards understanding how to improve our work well-being.

Expected/target for participant numbers: a minimum of 15-20 persons and max of about 40 (served on a first come first served, basis).
We are looking forward to seeing you in the session.
Kindly register directly via expressing your interest to RiverFlow2026@civil.auth.gr (stating your name and affiliation) by 30 March 2026

 Related

IAHR Task Force on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
IAHR Committee on Education and Professional Development
13th International Conference on Fluvial Hydraulics, River Flow, Thessaloniki, Greece, 30 June - 4 July 2026