Torres del Paine, Chile
© Shutterstock
© Shutterstock

Intergovernmental Hydrological Programme

Science for a water secure world

The UNESCO Intergovernmental Hydrological Programme (IHP), founded in 1975 following the International Hydrological Decade (1965-1974), is the only intergovernmental cooperation programme of the UN system dedicated to water research and management, and related education and capacity development. It addresses national, regional, and global water challenges, by supporting the development of sustainable and resilient societies. 

Ninth phase of the Intergovernmental Hydrological Programme: IHP-IX

This phase, covering 2022-2029, identifies key water priority areas to support Members States to achieve the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Strategic Plan

Science for a Water Secure World in a Changing Environment

Priority Areas

Identified and elaborated by UNESCO's Member States, and presented as five transformative tools for the period 2022-2029

UNESCO's Water Family in numbers

170
National Committees and Focal Points

compose the Intergovernmental Hydrological Programme

29
UNESCO water-related Centres

which undertake research, training and outreach in support of the IHP

79
UNESCO water-related Chairs

established as teaching and research positions at universities or research institutes

Lakes in Finland

UNESCO's expertise on water security

Understanding the state, use and management of the world’s freshwater resources and designing better water policies

UNESCO's work on water

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and learn more about our actions and work at the Intergovernmental Hydrological Programme.

Intergovernmental Hydrological Programme