Description
Changes in water systems around the world are a key indicator of the ongoing climate crisis. Whether it is prolonged droughts, extreme weather events or flooding, the most noticeable impacts of the crisis reach us through water. The World Water Development Report 2020, launched today, therefore focuses both on the challenges and on the opportunities and potential responses to the climate crisis related to water.
The United Nations World Water Development Report is UN-Water’s flagship report on contemporary water and sanitation issues, highlighting a special theme each year, concurrent with the World Water Day. It offers in-depth analyses provided by the UN-Water member and partner organizations and presents best practices and recommendations for decision-makers.
The World Water Development Report 2020 marks a special occasion for youth voices in the water sector. It is the first edition of the prestigious report to include youth contributions, provided by the World Youth Parliament for Water (WYPW). Young professionals from around the world will continue to be involved in the drafting of the upcoming World Water Development Reports under the leadership of the WYPW Research Group.
Juliane Schillinger, the coordinator of the WYPW Research Group, emphasizes the relevance of youth voices in the reports: “The inclusion of young professionals in this process is an important step. It ensures the inclusion of youth perspectives and fresh ideas on some of the most pressing water issues we are currently facing. This year’s report on the climate crisis is particularly relevant in this regard, as younger generations will bear the brunt of its impacts. Beyond that, our inclusion also sends a clear message: young professionals can provide valuable input as experts in their fields.”
Download the World Water Development Report 2020 ‘Water and Climate Change’ on the UNESCO World Water Assessment Programme’s website.
