22 March 2011
The international observance of World Water Day grew out of an initiative adopted at the 1992 United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED) in Rio de Janeiro. Every year, a different theme regarding water is explored. The objective of World Water Day 2011 is to focus international attention on the impact of rapid urban population growth, industrialization and uncertainties caused by climate change, conflicts and natural disasters on urban water systems. This year’s theme, Water for cities: responding to the urban challenge, aims to spotlight and encourage governments, organizations, communities, and individuals to actively engage in addressing urban water management.The United Nations General Assembly designated 22 March of each year as the World Day for Water. States were invited to devote the Day to implement the UN recommendations and set up concrete activities as deemed appropriate in the national context.
World Water Day events and learning opportunities webpage