Water for Peace: From Youth Voices to the 2026 Agenda
It was an energizing experience to join the Youth Interactive Days in Dakar.
Our colleague Erik A. Schnetzler spoke about water as a matter of human dignity, stability, and peace.
One message came through clearly: Water for Peace is a matter of urgency. In conflict zones, children are now more likely to die from waterborne diseases than from direct violence, and water systems are increasingly targeted. Protecting water from pollution and armed conflict and ensuring it is shared equitably is critical.
Youth voices set the tone:
As Emira Seidenalieva (Central Asia Youth for Water Network - CAY4W) put it:
“For many years, youth in the water sector have been invited to share perspectives and participate in discussions. Today, we are here with a different message: we are ready to implement.”
And Tim Rotteveel (Wavemakers United) underlined what turns commitments into impact:
“True momentum comes from leveraging urgency into accountability and real responses, both globally and locally.”
Many participants highlighted Water for Peace as a strategic priority cutting across all six dialogue themes linking water governance directly to conflict prevention, resolution, and cooperation. As emphasized by the Geneva Water Hub, transboundary water cooperation, justice, and the protection of water resources are foundational conditions for peace.
As we approach the UN 2026 Water Conference, one thing is clear: Water for Peace cannot be a side topic. It must run through every dialogue, every commitment, and every investment.
Jeunes Professionnels de l'Eau et de l'Assainissement du Sénégal
Major Group for Children and Youth
LOJIQ - Les Offices jeunesse internationaux du Québec
International Water Association
Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation
