The UAE has initiated the Global Youth Water Envoys Programme, inviting young leaders to influence international water policy before the 2026 UN Water Conference.
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Jul 15, 2026 ALN: The UAE has launched the Global Youth Water Envoys Programme, opening applications for young leaders worldwide to help shape international water policy ahead of the 2026 UN Water Conference in Abu Dhabi. This initiative is particularly significant as it seeks to engage the younger generation in a critical global issue: water scarcity and management, which are increasingly pressing challenges in many parts of the world.
Water is an essential resource for life, but its availability is unevenly distributed across the globe. Many regions, especially in Africa, the Arab States, and the Asia-Pacific, face severe water stress due to factors such as climate change, population growth, and mismanagement of water resources. The Global Youth Water Envoys Programme aims to address these issues by empowering young individuals who are passionate about water governance and sustainability.
The initiative was unveiled during the United Nations High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) in New York, a platform that focuses on sustainable development and the implementation of the 2030 Agenda. The programme is led by the Arab Youth Center (AYC) in partnership with the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and is supported by the Children's Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF). This collaboration highlights the UAE's commitment to fostering international cooperation and youth engagement in addressing global challenges.
The programme will bring together up to 100 delegates aged 18 to 35 from six global regions. Participants will be selected based on their demonstrated interest and experience in areas such as water governance, sustainability, climate, innovation, and policy. This diverse group is expected to represent a wide range of perspectives and experiences, enriching discussions and outcomes at the UN Water Conference.
From September to November, participants will engage in a virtual training programme that covers critical topics related to water management. This training will include modules on water governance, sustainability practices, climate impacts on water resources, innovative solutions to water management challenges, and policy development. The knowledge gained will be instrumental as participants prepare to engage with national delegations and institutional partners.
Selected participants will have the opportunity to contribute to one of six Interactive Dialogues at the UN Water Conference, scheduled to be held in Abu Dhabi from December 8 to 10. These dialogues will serve as a platform for young leaders to share their insights and recommendations on water security and sustainable development, thereby influencing international water policies.
Applications are now open to young people worldwide, reflecting the programme's commitment to inclusivity and global representation. Eligible applicants must be between 18 and 35 years old and demonstrate a working proficiency in , along with a keen interest or experience in relevant fields. This requirement ensures that participants are well-equipped to engage in meaningful discussions and contribute effectively to the programme.
Participants are expected to complete the full programme and act as ambassadors for meaningful youth engagement within their communities. This role is crucial, as it allows young leaders to disseminate knowledge and raise awareness about water-related issues, thereby fostering a culture of sustainability and responsible water use in their local contexts.
The initiative is bolstered by the support of several international organisations, including UNESCO, the Green Africa Youth Organization (GAYO), and WaterAid. These partnerships will provide participants with valuable expertise, training resources, and collaboration opportunities throughout the programme. Such collaborations are essential in creating a well-rounded educational experience that empowers young leaders to tackle complex water challenges.
Speaking at the launch, Dr Sultan bin Saif Al Neyadi, UAE Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Vice Chairman of the Arab Youth Center, emphasized that the programme aims to equip young people with the knowledge, skills, and global perspective needed to contribute to international discussions on water security and sustainable development. His remarks highlight the UAE's commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders who can drive positive change in water management practices.
Kate Hampton, chief executive of the Children's Investment Fund Foundation, echoed these sentiments, stating that the programme would provide young people with the training and institutional support needed to contribute practical solutions to growing global water challenges. This focus on actionable solutions is critical, as it encourages participants to think creatively and develop innovative approaches to address the multifaceted issues surrounding water scarcity.
The 2026 UN Water Conference will take place in Abu Dhabi from December 8 to 10, bringing together governments, international organisations, and experts to advance Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6), which aims to ensure access to clean water and sanitation for all. This conference is expected to be a pivotal moment for global water policy, providing a platform to discuss progress made toward achieving SDG 6 and identifying gaps that need to be addressed.
In the context of the ongoing global water crisis, the Global Youth Water Envoys Programme represents a timely and necessary initiative. By engaging young leaders in the dialogue around water governance, the UAE is not only fostering a sense of global citizenship among youth but also recognizing the vital role that young people play in shaping sustainable futures. As the world grapples with the realities of climate change and dwindling water resources, initiatives like this one are essential in promoting innovative solutions and collaborative efforts to ensure water security for all.
In conclusion, the Global Youth Water Envoys Programme stands as a testament to the UAE's commitment to youth empowerment and international cooperation in addressing one of the most pressing challenges of our time. As the programme unfolds and participants prepare for the upcoming UN Water Conference, there is hope that their contributions will lead to impactful discussions and actionable outcomes that advance global water security and sustainability efforts.
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