Successful Twin2Go workshop on adaptive Water Resources Management

During a workshop at the Water Convention in Geneva, more than 30 decision makers and practitioners discussed different opportunities and barriers in introducing more adaptive water governance practices and adaptive water resources management in Russia and the New Independent States.

In speaking of the obstacles the panellists stressed the importance of institutional resistance to change, as well as other cultural issues such as perceived value of water. New governance approaches therefore need to be carefully introduced and given enough time to become rooted in existing institutions and cultures. In terms of opportunities Elena Ostrovskaya, of the UNESCO-IHE, stressed the importance of education and scientific input for adaptive governance. These can not only increases the understanding of water managers and decision makers about the complex and changing requirements that water system have in adapting to climate change. Furthermore, science and education should be a substantial part in in the various phases of adaptive management, in order to adjust approaches to changing circumstances and uncertainties.

The side event was the first of four policy workshop in the Twin2Go project, which reviews, consolidates, and synthesises research on adaptive water governance in basins around the world. The discussion took place in the context of the 2nd Workshop on Water and Adaptation to Climate Change in Transboundary Basins, hosted by the UNECE (United Nations Economic Commission for Europe) Water Convention in Geneva. Three further such policy side-events will take place until November – next at the Singapore International Water Week in July.