From 1-5 June 2026 the 27th Council Session of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Hydrological Programme (IHP) took place at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris.
The 36 Council Members and many observers, hydrology experts and representatives of the UNESCO Water Family participated in the event, intended to update on the implementation of IHP’s ninth phase (2022-2029), launch new initiatives, share advancements in hydrological science, and take decisions about future directions of the programme. The event included the following highlights:
- First participation of the Netherlands in the Council as part of its 4-year tenure (2026-2029) and representation by the Netherlands UNESCO WMO Water Committee’s scientific co-chair;
- Submission of 2 resolutions by the Kingdom of the Netherlands, of which one (in collaboration with the United Arab Emirates and Senegal) to declare Youth4Water as an IHP Flagship Initiative (link), was approved;
- Approval of several general resolutions to advance the UNESCO Water Science Report, the Megacity Alliance on Water and Climate, and initiate discussions about the upcoming IHP-X Phase;
- Successful Side Event organized by IHE Delft on water education and capacity development (link);
- Many networking activities, receptions and a meeting of national committees to IHP in Region 1;
- In-person representatives of several Netherlands/-based water institutions.
👉 More information about IHP: link
