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UNESCO Category 2 Centre for Water Security and Sustainable Management
Sunhee RYU · 3rd Director
We sincerely welcome you to the website of the International Centre for Water Security and Sustainable Management under the auspices of UNESCO (i-WSSM). Water is an essential resource directly linked to human survival, and a common asset that must be protected for the prosperity and sustainable development of humanity. However, due to recent global climate change, various water-related disasters such as floods, droughts, and water pollution are occurring frequently. As a result, securing water that is safe (Secure), sufficient (Sufficient), and stable (Sustainable) – 'water security' – has become a critical challenge faced by all nations. To address this global crisis, the United Nations has included water security as a core agenda item in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and is making multifaceted efforts to ensure human dignity and community sustainability through the securing of high-quality water resources. Our Centre will continuously strengthen its professional capabilities and expand its scope of activities through innovative projects encompassing research, education, and policy. Furthermore, we will solidify our foundation for cooperation with various domestic and international experts and institutions that can contribute to solving water issues, and do our utmost to emerge as a central platform for global water security governance.
We will realize equitable and safe water use, and further grow as a center for the sustainable future of humanity.
The International Centre for Water Security and Sustainable Management under the auspices of UNESCO is a Category 2 Centre established pursuant to an agreement between the Government of the Republic of Korea and UNESCO. It conducts research, education, and international cooperation (networking) activities to enhance global water security.
The International centre for Water Security and Sustainable Management (i-WSSM) is a UNESCO Category 2 center in the natural sciences field, established under an agreement between the Government of the Republic of Korea and UNESCO. It was founded with the approval of the 37th UNESCO General Conference in 2016. Through the implementation of projects in accordance with UNESCO strategies, agreements, and relevant laws, it contributes to the promotion of water security and sustainable water management in the international community.
Responsibilities: Research and content development projects on global water security and sustainable water management, production and distribution of research and educational materials and publications, education, training, and capacity-building programs, as well as domestic and international exchange and cooperation projects.
Performing a central role in global water security to address paradigm shifts in water management, such as the climate crisis, AI, and urbanization.
i-WSSM aims to address complex water challenges such as water scarcity, water pollution, and climate change, and to contribute to enhancing the quality of life, including health, sanitation, economic development, and ecosystem preservation.
We support the world in designing a water-secure future by predicting crises through scientific research, fostering experts through education, and disseminating policies through global networks.
The 3A water security strategy strengthens the 3S foundation, enabling any region or country to achieve a Stable Society and maintain a Sound Economy within a Sustainable Environment.
An adequate amount of water, available to all without shortage, as needed.
An acceptable quality of water that everyone can use without concerns about waterborne disease or health
Accessible Water that everyone can access anytime, anywhere, without environmental disruption.
Introducing the three priority goals that UNESCO i-WSSM focuses on
Promoting the global water security agenda, supporting IHP strategies based on research and cooperation, managing the UNESCO Urban Water Management Programme Secretariat, and leading the water and gender agenda in the Asia-Pacific region
Water Security, Next-Generation Leader Capacity Building Program, Smart Water Management in Central Asia, Water Security Capacity Building through International Organization Cooperation, Water Education for Future Generations
Hosting the Future Water Security Forum, attending international water-related events, and fostering cooperation among the UNESCO Family to support the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
i-WSSM Website Renewal
Establishment of a Nairobi Regional Office within the Kenya Groundwater Research, Education and Training Center (RCGW) (Director: Mr. Benson Kimotho)
Opening of the first overseas i-WSSM's regional office within the National University of Laos (Director: Prof. Keodoungchai Keokhampui)
Establishment of a statutory corporation pursuant to the Framework Act on Water Management (Jan. 2022.); approval of agreement renewal by the 214th UNESCO Executive Board (Apr. 2022); and signing and entry into force of the Agreement and MoU (2022. December)
Legal basis for establishment secured through the amendment of the Framework Act on Water Management (July. 2021)
Key achievements of UNESCO i-WSSM since its establishment
Korea's first UNESCO Category 2 Centre in natural sciences officially established
UNESCO Executive Board approved agreement renewal and legal entity established under Water Management Basic Law
First overseas regional office opened at National University of Laos for global expansion
Regional office established within Kenya RCGW, launching Africa regional cooperation
Institutions that have signed formal Memoranda of Understanding with UNESCO i-WSSM
Managed under Admin > Partners page.
Join our global hub for research, education, and cooperation on water security and sustainable water management.