From 1–5 December 2025, the XIX World Water Congress brought together the global water community in Marrakech, Kingdom of Morocco. Co-hosted by the IWRA and Morocco’s Ministry of Equipment and Water under the High Patronage of King Mohammed VI, the Congress served as a major platform for advancing dialogue and solutions on pressing water challenges.
Overall, more than 1,200 participants from over 80 countries attended, connecting participants from around the world for meaningful knowledge sharing and partnership building.
Water in a Changing World
Held under the theme “Water in a Changing World: Innovation and Adaptation”, the Congress focused on how water management can and must respond to growing pressures from climate change, environmental degradation, and rising water demand. Discussions highlighted the importance of grounding policy and practice in sound science, while remaining responsive to different regional and local contexts.
A Vibrant Global Platform and Thought Leadership
Across the week, the Congress created space for exchange across disciplines, sectors, and regions. Technical sessions, panels, and exhibitions enabled participants to share research, practical experience, and emerging approaches to water management
The Congress also marked several milestones. This includes the adoption of the Marrakech Declaration, the signing of a Letter of Intent (LOI) between IWRA and UNESCO-IHP to strengthen collaboration on science-based water action, and the culmination of the IWRA World Water Envoys Programme, which amplified the voices of four outstanding young water leaders.
The International Water Resources Association (IWRA) honoured outstanding contributions to global water sustainability and thought leadership in a special IWRA Awards ceremony. The Association celebrated the Crystal Drop Award, presented to Claudia Sadoff for her transformative leadership and impactful work on water security, and the Water Drop Award, recognising rising talent in the sector with Hassan Tolba Aboelnga honoured for his innovative contributions to water security and climate resilience. In addition to these awards, the prestigious Ven Te Chow Memorial Lecture was delivered by Professor Cecilia Tortajada, highlighting seminal insights into water resources management.
The Congress concluded with the adoption of the landmark Ministerial Declaration and Marrakech Declaration — powerful international calls to place water at the forefront of global decision-making and elevate it as a top-tier priority across all major international platforms.
Looking Ahead
Over the course of the event, the XIX World Water Congress reaffirmed the importance of platforms that connect science, policy, and practice in addressing complex water challenges, while sustaining momentum across the international water agenda.
As IWRA enters its 55th year, the outcomes of Marrakech will help shape future global initiatives, including the 2nd Islands Water Congress in Jamaica in 2026, and the XX World Water Congress in Istanbul, Türkiye, in 2027.
