This workshop which is organized by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) has the following main objectives:
- Revisit current challenges and needs in the management and protection of transboundary waters;
- Review and analyse the work under the UNECE Water Convention;
- Discuss and agree on future objectives with the aim to develop a strategy and prioritize activities for the future programme of work.
Capitalizing on the findings of the Second Assessment of Transboundary Rivers, Lakes and Groundwaters prepared under the Convention, the workshop will be a first and key brainstorming opportunity to shape a new programme of work of the Convention for 2013-2015 and beyond. The ideas stemming from the workshop will be further refined and developed before the formal adoption of the programme of work at the sixth session of the Meeting of the Parties to the Convention in November 2012. As the entry into force of the amendment opening the Convention to countries outside the UNECE region is forthcoming, this workshop will provide a vibrant forum for discussion of effective responses to this new situation. The workshop will also discuss the work under the Convention related to future assessments.
The workshop will bring together major stakeholders of the Water Convention, including members of the Bureau of the Water Convention, representatives of countries leading activities and bodies under the Convention, representatives of different geographical subregions, joint bodies, partners from UN and other international organizations, NGOs and sector organizations.