Summer School 2026: Advancing Skills in Water Governance and Negotiation
From climate security to geopolitics and sustainable development, water is increasingly recognised as a strategic issue for governments, international organisations, and the private sector. This momentum will culminate later this year at the 3rd UN Water Conference in the United Arab Emirates, confirming water’s central place in global policy debates.
In this context, the Certificate of Advanced Studies (CAS) “Water Governance: Frameworks and Negotiations” will take place in Geneva from 22 June to 3 July 2026. Designed for professionals working at a strategic level, the programme combines an online module with two intensive weeks of in-person teaching in Geneva.
Participants will strengthen their capacity to:
- Understand hydropolitics and power dynamics around shared waters
- Navigate international water law and transboundary negotiations
- Develop conflict management and negotiation skills
- Use data and governance tools to support cooperation
- Engage with practitioners and institutions based in International Geneva
The programme is delivered in partnership with the Institute for Environmental Sciences (University of Geneva), the Geneva Water Hub, and the UNESCO Chair in Hydropolitics, and brings together leading academics and practitioners. The 2026 edition features contributions from Prof. Christian Bréthaut, Prof. Géralidne Pflieger, Dr Imane Messaoudi-Mattei, Dr Mara Tignino, Ms Olivia Macharis, and Mr Diego Jara.
The CAS is a blended modular programme awarding 10 ECTS credits, with a limited cohort of 15 participants to ensure high-level interaction and hands-on learning.
Application deadline: 28 March 2026
Dates: 22 June – 3 July 2026, Geneva
Professionals interested in strengthening their expertise in water governance and cooperation are invited to apply via the University of Geneva’s continuing education platform:
www.unige.ch/formcont/en/courses/CASwatergovernance
