OSCE supported workshop on enhancing transboundary water co-operation

Enhancing water diplomacy as a way of improving transboundary water co-operation is the focus of a workshop that is taking place on 12 and 13 November 2019 in Strasbourg, France.

The event was organized by the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities (OCEEA) in collaboration with the Central Commission for Navigation on the Rhine (CCNR).

The two-day workshop brings together representatives of the transboundary river basin commissions, relevant governmental agencies, international organizations and other key stakeholders supporting transboundary water co-operation from Central Asia, the South Caucasus, Eastern Europe and South-Eastern Europe.

Many of the world's water resources are commonly used by two or more countries. In the OSCE area there are more than 150 river and lake basins shared by two or more States.

OSCE Secretary General Thomas Greminger addressed the workshop via a video message, welcoming the participants and highlighting the importance of water diplomacy and transboundary water co-operation in the OSCE context.

Bruno Georges, Secretary General of CCNR, reflected on the historical legacy of the work that led to the establishment of river basin commissions and their importance for building trust and dialogue.

The participants took part in discussions showcasing best practices and exchanging lessons learned in common use of transboundary water resources in their respective countries. They also explored areas of future co-operation and discussed potential partnerships. During the second day, the workshop participants took part in the field trip to the Rhine basin.

Vuk Žugić, Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities noted that throughout the years, the OSCE has worked with its participating States to strengthen transboundary water co-operation through facilitating dialogue in the common use of water resources. “Water diplomacy is an effective tool to achieve a comprehensive approach to security and stability,” said Žugić.

The event was organized with financial support of the Governments of Switzerland and Liechtenstein.