International Water Association and International Desalination and Reuse Association Forge Partnership for Sustainable Water Management
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – October 7, 2026 — In a significant move aimed at addressing the pressing challenges of water security and sustainability, the International Water Association (IWA) and the International Desalination and Reuse Association (IDRA) have formally entered into a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This partnership, announced during the IWA World Water Congress and Exhibition, seeks to enhance collaboration within the global water community by promoting innovative solutions and fostering resilient water management practices.
The partnership between IWA and IDRA will focus on multiple avenues of cooperation, including professional development, online learning initiatives, and support for Young Water Professionals. By engaging in joint events and fostering knowledge exchange, the two organizations aim to address global water agendas, which will culminate in their collaboration at the upcoming United Nations Water Conference scheduled to take place in Abu Dhabi this December.
Kalanithy Vairavamoorthy, Executive Director of IWA, underscored the importance of this partnership: “This collaboration provides a critical opportunity to strengthen ties across the global water community and develop innovative strategies to combat the challenges posed by water security and resilience.” His sentiment reflects a growing recognition among global leaders and institutions of the urgent need for cohesive action in addressing water-related issues.
In a similar vein, Shannon K. McCarthy, Secretary-General and Executive Director of IDRA, expressed her enthusiasm for the agreement. “This MoU sets the stage for uniting our collective expertise, sharing valuable insights, and advancing our initiatives on the global water agenda. We anticipate impactful collaborations that start with tangible discussions at the UN Water Conference,” McCarthy said, highlighting the commitment to actionable results that extend beyond theoretical discussions.
The strategic alliance outlined in the MoU places a strong emphasis on knowledge exchange, innovation, and capacity building. These components are pivotal for confronting the plethora of challenges related to water scarcity, pollution, and climate change that countries worldwide are grappling with. By linking professionals, researchers, and policymakers through their respective networks, IWA and IDRA will create a platform for sharing best practices and technical innovations, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of water management approaches worldwide.
As global populations continue to rise, the availability of clean water is increasingly under threat. According to a report by the United Nations, an estimated 2 billion people are currently living in countries experiencing high water stress. This concerning statistic serves as a clarion call for international collaboration among stakeholders in the water sector. The partnership between IWA and IDRA is a timely and necessary response to these challenges, embodying the spirit of international cooperation that is imperative for the sustainable management of this invaluable resource.
Established in 1947, the International Water Association serves as a global network for water professionals, uniting them with a common goal of advancing knowledge, leadership, and capacity building in water management. With over 10,000 members from across the world, the IWA provides a vital framework for sharing insights and fostering innovations that promote efficient water use.
Conversely, the International Desalination and Reuse Association has been connecting professionals within the desalination and water reuse sectors since its foundation in 1973. With a membership base that spans more than 60 countries, IDRA leverages its broad network to facilitate technical advancements and sustainable practices aimed at addressing global water shortages.
Together, IWA and IDRA represent both the breadth and depth of expertise required to tackle the growing demands of water management. Their collaborative efforts, beginning with immediate initiatives leading up to the UN Water Conference, will undoubtedly set the course for future advancements in water sustainability.
In conclusion, the IWA and IDRA MoU encapsulates a proactive approach to global water management, emphasizing not only immediate responses to current challenges but also a vision for sustainable practices that ensure water security for future generations. As the world faces escalating water crises, partnerships like this can catalyze the necessary innovations in technology and policy that harness the collective strength of the global water community.
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