by Kathleen Hesketh

Created on: March 13, 2009   Last Updated: March 20, 2009

To draw attention to the importance of freshwater sources world wide, the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development designated March 22nd as World Water Day. Since 1993, the conference has concentrated on a selected aspect of freshwater with the intent of bringing focus and awareness to people worldwide.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), is the leader of the 2009 Water Day. They are joined by United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). Their goal this year is to encourage cooperation and communication over the world's shared freshwater sources through a theme entitled, "Shared WaterShared Opportunities".

Freshwater is one of our most valuable resources. 263 of the world's water basins drain across international borders, and 270 underground aquifers cross boundaries around the globe. While there is plenty of water to share, it is predicted that by 2025, nearly 1800 million people could suffer from water scarcity. Some people already face critical situations. Uneven water distribution, poor management, and pollution of water resources are all problems that face transboundary waters.

As populations develop and countries expand industry opportunities, some fear disputes over water rights are inevitable. Both pollution and mismanagement have already led to problems with shared water sources. Fortunately, the majority of these situations have been handled peacefully. Only 37 disputes over water use have ever led to violence. In contrast, there have been 300 agreements put into place concerning the use and control of transboundary waters. These agreements do more than govern the use of water. They encourage peace and mutual respect.

By focusing on shared waters, UNESCO and its supporting organizations, hope to see more of these agreements take shape. Throughout the month of March, activities worldwide will focus on the need for clean water sources and the importance of shared water in particular. Some of the participating countries are offering contests, workshops and festivals. These address the critical problems facing shared waterways today. In addition, global internet events draw focus through art, music, webinars and fundraisers. An international poster contest offers winners the opportunity to be part of the solution, by identifying a water resource issue in their area, and participating on a committee created to solve the problem. A full list of events can be found on the Water Day website, www.worldwaterday.org.

The future of transboundary waterways is being decided right now. There are 105 shared waterways that do not yet have agreements concerning shared usage. Without guidelines to govern management and pollution, these waters could be unusable in years to come. Knowing the threats facing our future, the 2009 Water Day will draw focus and attention to the importance of protecting these resources.

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