The President's greetings At the start of this new year, our world is tense. More precisely, we are experiencing countless tensions. Tensions in economy and finance, food and health, diplomacy and military issues. And closer to our concerns, we are witnessing severe energy and water tensions. Gaps are opening up. They are ethical and cultural gaps, geographic and demographic inequalities. None of this is cause for optimism. And intolerance is gaining ground, as a vector of poverty where diversity should be synonymous with prosperity. What do we offer the younger generations but a future darkened by so many conflicts that are spreading like uncontrolled fires? And yet we must reject discouragement in the face of the disorderly march of this world. Let us remain convinced that Nature is an asset that humans can both protect and value. This is the duty and responsibility of our great Water family. A duty to fulfill and a responsibility to assume as well as a response to provide. Global water is more than ever the essence of life and its cornerstone. So, on the threshold of this new year, let us stay the course and continue our peaceful fight to secure water resources and share their benefits. Let us be united around what brings us together-- desire for peace, prosperity and dignity. These are the wishes I would like to express as we embark on “Road 2025”. With my respect, dedication and commitment. Loïc Fauchon Version française : cliquer ici 2d2fc14de0e40de4.jpg World Water Council: Highlights from the 88th Board of Governors in Barcelona (December 2024) In December 2024, the World Water Council gathered in Barcelona for the 88th Board of Governors meeting, where we focused on pivotal water issues and advanced our core advocacy. Our interventions reflected the mandate set by the General Assembly, emphasizing key subjects we defend, such as the Five Fingers Alliance. This approach remains central to our mission, guiding our discussions on how to create a sustainable future through effective water management. The Five Fingers Alliance: A Comprehensive Approach to Water for Sustainable Development At the heart of the World Water Council work is the Five Fingers Alliance, which underscores the critical role of water in global development. This alliance envisions a future where water is central to addressing humanity’s most pressing challenges. Each of the five "fingers" symbolizes a pillar that the World Water Council fervently advocates for, as follows: Water and Sanitation: Clean water is life; safe sanitation is dignity. We stress that access to clean water and safe sanitation is foundational to human dignity and public health. The right to clean water is not just a necessity, but a fundamental human right. Energy: Powering progress with every drop. The efficient use of water is essential for energy production, particularly in hydropower, which can offer sustainable solutions to meet growing global energy demands. Food: Feeding the world through smarter water use. Water is indispensable for agricultural production. Smart water management is critical to feeding a growing global population while safeguarding this precious resource. Health: Clean water, safe lives. Access to safe water directly correlates to improved health outcomes. Clean water prevents disease, improves hygiene, and saves lives. Education: Knowledge and awareness for a better future. Education on water conservation, sustainability, and management is key to ensuring the responsible use of water resources. It empowers future generations to make informed decisions. Each finger of this alliance is essential to achieving a sustainable future, serving the needs of humans and nature alike. Every finger is connected and supports the others, for the benefit of all today and for generations to come. The Five Fingers Alliance is a call to recognize that water meets all human needs and is the foundation for progress. However, our mandate goes beyond these five pillars. The World Water Council works in partnership with governments, organizations, and stakeholders across the water sector. We aim to include everyone in addressing water-related challenges, understanding that collective action is essential to building a sustainable future. a4304e24a1a962ac.jpg Key Interventions by Experts: During the Board of Governors meeting, several of our experts shared their valuable insights on critical issues related to water: Water & Food: Lifeng Li, Director Land & Water Division – FAO, discussed how innovative water management in agriculture can enhance food security, urging smarter water use to increase crop yields without depleting resources. Water & Health: Pr. Ahmet Saatci, World Water Council Former Board & Bureau Member, highlighted the link between clean water and public health, stressing the need for sustainable water systems to prevent diseases and improve sanitation. Water & Energy: Tarik Hamane, Director General – ONEE Morocco, shared insights on the synergies between water and energy, advocating for better integration of water management in energy production to enhance sustainability. Water & Education: Loay Seif, General Manager for Mathematical Models Nile Water Sector - Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation (Egypt), highlighted the need for professional training in the water sector, alongside the AWARe initiative, to equip experts with the skills and knowledge required to address global water challenges effectively. Water & Finance: Franz Rojas, Director at Bank of Latin America – CAF, outlined strategies for financing water-related projects, highlighting the role of innovative financing mechanisms to accelerate investment in water infrastructure. Water & Local Authorities: ICLEI - Local Governments for Sustainability presented on the vital role local authorities play in water management, focusing on community-based approaches to ensure sustainable water use. Looking Ahead: Follow-Up on the 10th World Water Forum The World Water Council continues to build on the momentum from the 10th World Water Forum, with a significant upcoming event in collaboration with our Indonesian partners. This event will serve as a key moment to reflect on the Forum’s outcomes and to foster further action on the ground. Additionally, we are proud to announce the signature of the framework agreement for the 11th World Water Forum. Task Force Presentations The Five World Water Council Task Forces have presented valuable work during this meeting, with a focus on addressing urgent water challenges. Their strategies and recommendations will guide our actions towards the conclusion of this mandate, ensuring that our advocacy remains relevant and impactful. Youth Engagement: Empowering the Next Generation Youth continue to be at the heart of our mission. Their energy, innovation, and commitment to water sustainability are crucial for shaping a future where water is managed wisely. The World Water Council remains dedicated to empowering youth through platforms for involvement and advocacy.