Kicking Off the 2025 Summer School on Water Governance

At a time when water is making global headlines — from extreme droughts to intensifying disputes over shared rivers — the governance of this vital resource has never been more urgent or complex. Against this backdrop, the 2025 edition of the Summer School on Water Governance: Framework and Negotiations has officially begun at the Formation Continue – Université de Genève.

The program launched with a field tour led by our Scientific Director, Professor Christian Bréthaut, who guided participants through key water sites across Geneva, including the Bains des Pâquis and the confluence of the Rhône and Arve rivers. These emblematic locations illustrate the intricate balance between nature, infrastructure, and policy that defines water governance in action.

This year’s cohort brings together a dynamic and diverse group of professionals and researchers from around the world, all dedicated to exploring the legal, political, and institutional dimensions of water management and cooperation. Over the next two weeks, participants will engage in a series of sessions hosted at the University of Geneva’s Institute for Environmental Sciences — a leading hub for advancing science-policy dialogue around water and peace.

Speakers include internationally recognized experts such as:

• Christian Bréthaut
• Imane Messaoudi-Mattei
• Aline Telle
• Thomas Bolognesi
• Mark Zeitoun
• Mara Tignino
• Laurence Boisson de Chazournes
• Mutoy Mubiala
• Komlan Sangbana, Ph.D
• Tadesse Kebebew
• Caroline Pellaton
• Natasha Carmi
• David Kaelin
• Representatives from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC)

Together, they will explore the frameworks, negotiations, and shared responsibilities that shape global water governance. Stay tuned as we follow this journey toward more equitable and sustainable water futures.