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Call for participation: UNESCO Water Youth Dialogue 2025

UNESCO is launching a call for young water advocates and professionals to participate in the inaugural UNESCO Water Youth Dialogue, which shall convene at UNESCO Headquarters on 12-13 June, 2025.
A single water drop creating ripples in still water

About the Dialogue

The Water Youth Dialogue is a landmark 1.5-day event that will unite 50 young water advocates from across the globe at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris. As part of UNESCO's commitment to water security and youth engagement, this dialogue will create a powerful platform for intergenerational exchange between youth organizations and UNESCO Water Family members. 

Participants will contribute to UNESCO's IHP-IX Operational Implementation Plan while developing concrete action plans for the UN 2026 Water Conference. The event will focus on sustainable water management under climate change conditions, fostering innovative solutions, and building capacity among young water professionals. This dialogue comes at a crucial time when 60% of young people report experiencing climate-induced water events in their communities, making youth participation in water governance more vital than ever. 

Who can apply?

  • Representatives from UNESCO Water Family organizations 
  • Members of active youth water networks 
  • Young professionals committed to advancing the water agenda 

What to expect

Participants will engage in:

  • Intergenerational exchanges with UNESCO Water Family and UN-Water members
  • Capacity building sessions on sustainable water management
  • Development of innovative water solutions
  • Creation of youth-driven action plans for the UN 2026 Water Conference

Important information

Organizations or delegates are expected to cover their participation costs. However, a limited number of bursaries will be available for participants from underrepresented regions and resource-limited organizations.

Selection will prioritize regional and gender balance to ensure diverse representation.

How to apply

Interested candidates should submit their applications via the below online form by 15 April 2025. Selected participants will be notified by 20 April 2025. 

For more information about the event and application process, please contact the organizers of the dialogue: groundwater@unesco.org. 

A single water drop creating ripples in still water

Submit your participation request

Be part of this unique opportunity to shape the future of global water management and contribute to UNESCO's mission of achieving water security for all.