Milestones
10th World Water Forum
MARRAKECH, 1997
The first World Water Forum was held in Marrakech, Morocco in 1997. It gathered 400 participants and aimed to address the global water crisis. The forum resulted in the Marrakech Declaration, mandated the World Water Council (WWC) to develop the “World Water Vision” for the 21st century. This declaration marked a crucial step towards resolving the water crisis. The vision was later published in 2000 and presented at the 2nd World Water Forum.
The success of the forum was evident in the issuance of the Marrakech Declaration and the establishment of WWC’s leadership in developing the World Water Vision for a sustainable future.
THE HAGUE, 2000
In 2002, the 2nd World Water Forum was held in The Hague, Netherlands. It generated significant discussions on the “World Water Vision” and associated action plans. One outcome was the proposal for a monitoring team to survey global water community efforts and reporting concrete action plans at 3rd World Water Forum.
The forum presented to around 5,700 participants from 130 countries, attended by 500 journalists, and a Ministerial Conference with 114 ministers that resulted in the Hague Declaration on Water Security.
KYOTO, 2003
The 3rd World Water Forum, held in Kyoto, Shiga, and Osaka, Japan in 2003. With over 24,000 participants, the forum brought together 1,300 official delegations from 170 countries and 47 international organizations. The forum resulted in the publication of the “World Water Actions” report, analyzing 3,000 field actions and showcasing global efforts in addressing water challenges.
The forum emphasized the involvement of all stakeholders through initiatives like the “Virtual Water Forum and the collection of testimonies in the ”Voice of Water” Water Action Portfolio. The forum showcased Japan’s dedication as the host country and its commitment to addressing water-related issue. The forum aimed to contribute to water-conscious movement, sparking debates, and increasing awareness at various societal levels.
MEXICO, 2006
The 4th World Water Forum took place in Mexico City, in 2006. It attracted nearly 20,000 participants from around the world. The participants included official representatives and delegations from 140 countries, including 120 mayors, 150 legislators, and 78 ministers.
The forum focused on key water management and governance issues, including improving access to water and sanitation, enhancing financing mechanisms, and fostering international cooperation. Its outcomes played a crucial role in promoting dialogue and action in these areas, addressing global water challenges effectively.
ISTANBUL, 2009
In 2009, 5th World Water Forum was held in Istanbul, Turki. More than 30,000 participants took part in the forum, with over 400 organizations contributing. The forum was organised around 6 themes, featured 7 regional reports, and included 5 high-level panels. It marked several firsts: a meeting of Hears of State, engagement over 250 parliament members, and development of the Ministerial Statement and Water Guide.
Thematic and Regional Coordinators, along with representatives from Major Groups, participated in preparatory meetings. Ministerial-level roundtable discussions facilitated exchanges with stakeholders, while Local and Regional Authorities achieved the Istanbul Water Consensus (IWC), committing to adapt water infrastructure and services to emerging challenges.
MARSEILLE, 2012
The 6th World Water Forum took place in Marseille, France, bringing together stakeholders from around the world under the theme “Time for Solutions.” With over 35,000 participants representing 173 countries, including heads of states and ministers, the forum featured over 250 sessions addressing water challenges. The event also showcased the Village of Solutions and Platform of Solutions, highlighting existing approaches to water and sanitation issues. France, as the host, generated surplus revenue from the forum, which was subsequently invested in supporting project on the ground.
DAEGU-GYEONGBUK, 2015
The 7th World Water Forum, held in Daegu-Gyeongbuk in 2015, marked a new phase in global efforts for sustainable development. It aimed to implement solutions from the previous forum, facilitate discussions on water-related issues, and foster cooperation among governments, organizations, and companies. The event attracted over 40,000 participants from 168 countries, making it the largest water conference in history.
During the forum, political leaders proposed initiatives such as the “Daegu-Gyeongbuk Water Week” to encourage commitments and collaborations. High-level government officials, including minister and parliamentary representatives, engaged in discussions on water politics. Various agreements were signed, and bilateral and multilateral meetings created opportunities for cooperation. The Expo and fair showcased innovative ideas and technologies from 39 countries, providing a platform to share water policies and advancements. Overall, this event played a significant role in advancing global water management and sustainability goals.
BRASILIA, 2018
The 8th World Water Forum took place in Brasilia, Brazil, in 2018, marking a significant milestone as the first time the event was held in the southern hemisphere. With the theme of “Sharing Water,” the forum aimed to address the water challenges globally and stimulate innovative solutions. The forum attracted over 10,600 participants from 172 countries, including heads of state, government ministers, and parliamentary delegations. The event showcased Brazil’s water potential, technical expertise, and commitment to sustainable water management, while emphasizing the importance of participation from developing countries in global discussions.
The 8th World Water Forum, held in Brasilia, Brazil, was the largest edition to date, placing water at the forefront of political and social agendas. With over 109,000 visitors and extensive media coverage, the forum brought together diverse stakeholders to explore solutions for water-related challenges with over 350 sessions and events by provided thought-provoking discussions. Brazil’s rich water resources and well-established management systems contributed to its successful hosting.
DAKAR, 2022
The 9th World Water Forum, held in Dakar, Senegal, marked the first time the event took place in sub-Saharan Africa. It brought together world leaders, practitioners, and civil society to address water and sanitation challenges under the theme “Water Security for Peace and Development.” The forum aimed to promote collective action, cooperation, and integrated solutions to tackle pressing water issues.
The agreement between Senegal and the World Water Council paved the way for the 9th World Water Forum, emphasizing the need to secure global water supply through financial investment, improved governance, and enhanced knowledge and capacity. The event recognized the escalating impacts of climate variability and change, such as increased droughts and floods, and called for intensified efforts to address these challenges. The forum served as a vital platform to accelerate progress towards global water goals and create a more water-secure future.