The global water crisis affects everyone – but not equally. Where people lack the human rights to safe drinking water and sanitation, inequalities flourish, with women and girls bearing the brunt. This World Water Day 2026, it’s time to centre women and girls in water solutions. Because where water flows, equality grows. 

At IAHR, we recognize that the global water crisis is not just a technical challenge, but a social one, as highlighted by UNESCO, the crisis is significantly aggravated by gender inequality and a lack of diverse perspectives. We believe that sustainable water management requires a workforce that reflects the world it serves. Therefore, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment where professionals of all backgrounds can thrive and express their ideas. By embracing a variety of lived experiences and expertise, we ensure that our engineering and research solutions are equitable, resilient, and capable of addressing the complex needs of every community.

World Water Day, held on 22 March every year since 1993, is an annual United Nations Observance. That is why, on the occasion of World Water Day 2026, with the theme "Water and Gender", IAHR extends its deepest gratitude to our Communities: Technical Committees, Congress organisers, Task Force on Strengthening Diversity, YPNs and all of those integrating diverse perspectives into water management and governance, ensuring that our research and engineering practices reflect the needs of all society. That is why we want to recognize the efforts in promoting and amplifying the voices of our women experts. 

At IAHR, we are profoundly proud of our commitment to ensuring women's participation in water management and governance. This is not just a matter of equity; it is a key driver for global progress and sustainable development. Together, we continue to build a future where every expert has a seat at the table, to solve the world's most pressing water challenges. 

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IAHR Task Force on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
IAHR organises a session on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion on the occasion of International Women's Day