Climate Resilience through Regional Cooperation

Shared knowledge for transboundary groundwater cooperation

Groundwater


Groundwater accounts for half of the freshwater needs of Arab States for agriculture, industry, energy and domestic use. The reliance on groundwater is increasing as surface waters become more scarce, polluted and costly to capture given the impacts of climate change and increasing demand. More than 58 per cent of the region’s surface area constitutes transboundary groundwater basins, the management of which is complicated by insufficient data, over extraction and limited cooperation between States. Improved management of groundwater resources is fundamental to ensure water and food security.


ESCWA supports member States to pursue transboundary water cooperation and mitigate the potential for conflict through a series of planned activities that build capacity and knowledge sharing on groundwater by:

  • Strengthening legal and institutional capacity.
  • Preparing joint climate change assessments.
  • Institutionalizing the Arab Groundwater Knowledge Platform.
ESCWA - Shared Prosperity Dignified Life
Our vision

ESCWA, an innovative catalyst for a stable, just and flourishing Arab region.

Our mission

Committed to the 2030 Agenda, ESCWA’s passionate team produces innovative knowledge, fosters regional consensus and delivers transformational policy advice. Together, we work for a sustainable future for all.

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