UNPFII Statement: Dakar High-Level Meeting for 2026 UN Water Conference
- A high-level preparatory meeting for the 2026 UN Water Conference took place in Dakar,Senegal,on January 26,2026,focusing on accelerating action to address the global water crisis and climate change.
- The 2026 UN Water conference aims to comprehensively review the implementation of the United Nations 2023 Water Action Agenda, which emerged from the 2023 UN water Conference in...
- The Dakar meeting served as a crucial step in preparing for the 2026 conference, emphasizing the need for concrete progress on these commitments and the growth of new,...
Dakar Meeting Prepares for 2026 UN Water Conference
Table of Contents
A high-level preparatory meeting for the 2026 UN Water Conference took place in Dakar,Senegal,on January 26,2026,focusing on accelerating action to address the global water crisis and climate change.
The 2026 UN Water Conference
The 2026 UN Water conference aims to comprehensively review the implementation of the United Nations 2023 Water Action Agenda, which emerged from the 2023 UN water Conference in New York. The 2023 conference resulted in over 800 voluntary commitments to action from various stakeholders.
The Dakar meeting served as a crucial step in preparing for the 2026 conference, emphasizing the need for concrete progress on these commitments and the growth of new, aspiring goals. The conference will be co-hosted by the Netherlands and Tajikistan.
Climate Change and Water Security
Climate change directly impacts water resources, exacerbating existing challenges like scarcity and pollution. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Special report on 1.5°C highlights the increased risks of droughts, floods, and water stress in many regions due to rising global temperatures.
The Dakar meeting underscored the importance of integrating water management into national climate adaptation plans and increasing investment in water infrastructure that is resilient to climate impacts. Specifically, discussions centered on the need for nature-based solutions and innovative technologies to enhance water security.
Focus on Lasting Impact
Participants at the Dakar meeting stressed the importance of ensuring the 2026 UN water Conference delivers tangible and lasting impact for current and future generations. Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6), which focuses on clean water and sanitation, is central to this effort.
Achieving SDG 6 by 2030 requires significant acceleration in efforts to improve water access, sanitation, and water resource management globally. The Dakar meeting aimed to identify key priorities and strategies to accelerate progress towards this goal, including strengthening international cooperation and mobilizing financial resources.