For many of us expats living in Indonesia, the beauty of the beaches and lush landscapes can make it easy to forget the importance of water security. But with a growing population and the ever-present threat of climate change, water management is a critical issue not just here, but across the globe. That’s where the World Water Forum comes in.
So, What is the World Water Forum?
Think of the World Water Forum as the Olympics of water – a massive international event held every three years that brings together world leaders, water experts, businesses, and NGOs. It’s a platform for collaboration and discussion on how to tackle pressing water challenges like access to clean water, sanitation, and sustainable water management.
Why is it Important?
Water is life, and with millions lacking access to clean water and proper sanitation, the World Water Forum plays a vital role in driving progress. The Forum fosters dialogue and innovation, leading to concrete actions and commitments from governments and organizations.
While Indonesia will be the host of the 2024 World Water Forum, other Southeast Asian neighbours have already set stages to host the gathering through the past years.
Looking back, past Forums have addressed a wide range of water issues. From the 3rd Forum in Kyoto, Japan, which focused on “Water for a Healthy People,” to the 6th Forum in Marseille, France, which tackled “Sharing Water – Meeting Global Challenges,” the Forum has consistently pushed the boundaries of water management.
The World Water Forum 2024 in Bali, Indonesia
The preparation of the 10th World Water Forum has now entered its active phase. Indonesia and the World Water Council are organizing this 10th Forum with a double objective.
The President of WWF, Loic Fauchon, shared his vision for the upcoming forum in Bali, Indonesia, as reported on the official website of worldwaterforum.org.
Firstly, he emphasized that water as well as sanitation should be considered political priorities at all levels, be it international, national, or local. He stressed that the priorities require political actions and solutions.
Secondly, he highlighted the need for a strong collaboration between innovation, governance, and finance to provide water to millions of people who are currently deprived of it. This collaboration needs to result in practical solutions that can improve the daily lives of the poorest people.
The World Water Council and its member organizations are excited to be co-organizing the 10th World Water Forum, set to be held in Bali from May 18 to May 25, 2024. The President expressed his gratitude to Indonesia, the President of the Republic, the Ministers in charge, and the Indonesian colleagues for their efforts in making this event a successful part of the Great Water Story.
The 10th World Water Forum is scheduled to take place in Bali from May 18-25, 2024. Final preparations are being made to showcase the beauty of the “Island of Gods” to the participants. The forum is not just about discussing the theme of “Water for Shared Prosperity,” but also serves as evidence that Indonesia is ready to make a significant contribution to the efforts in maintaining the sustainability of the world’s water resources.
Endra S. Atmawidjaja, who is the Vice Chair of the National Secretariat Committee for the 10th World Water Forum and Senior Advisor to the Minister of Public Works and Housing (PUPR) for Technology, Industry, and Environment, has stated that the World Water Forum presents a golden opportunity for Indonesia to significantly impact water policy direction.
Endra explained that Indonesia is bringing three special missions to the meetings in Bali, which include the Center of Excellence on Water and Climate Resilience, mainstream integrated water management in small islands, and the regular activities of World Lake Days.
The 10th World Water Forum has three main processes: political, regional, and thematic processes, all of which will involve various stakeholders. These stakeholders include heads of state, ministers, regional leaders, academics, researchers, and even youth who will participate in exchanging ideas. There are 230 thematic forums, 55 side events, and 10 special sessions. Additionally, the Indonesian government has invited heads of state, heads of international organizations, and ministers or minister-level officials responsible for water resource issues.
The series of events for the 10th World Water Forum will begin with the Balinese Water Purification Ceremony, which is one of Bali’s traditional rituals, utilizing the concept of Rahina Tumpek Uye and Upacara Segara Kerthi. On May 20, 2024, the Opening Ceremony and High-Level Meeting will commence at BICC, Nusa Dua. This will be followed by interface meetings with relevant parties for political, thematic, and regional processes, as well as bilateral meetings with several heads of state.
On the same day, the Fair and Expo will be opened at Nusa Dua Hall BNDCC. Subsequently, the Fair and Expo will be held at BNDCC, BICC, and Kuta Beach. Political, thematic, and regional process sessions will be held from May 20 to 25, 2024. Meanwhile, the High-Level Meeting and Ministerial Meeting are specifically scheduled for May 20-21, 2024.
There will also be a Cultural Night (Farewell) agenda at Taman Bhagawan on May 24, 2024, where guests may enjoy local cuisine, traditional dances, and Indonesian culture. The closing ceremony will take place on May 25, 2024. After the World Water Forum activities conclude, participants will also be invited on a field trip, including to the Water Museum in Tabanan, the Jatiluwih UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lake Batur in Kintamani, and the Cultural Village in Ubud.
To read more about the World Water Forum and find out how to participate in the event, kindly visit the World Water Council’s official website at worldwatercouncil.org.
