Introduction to the 2026 UN Water Conference and the Global Youth Movement for Water

The 2026 United Nations Water Conference will be a pivotal moment for accelerating global action on water and sanitation. As preparations for the Conference gather momentum, young people have a unique opportunity to shape international dialogue and contribute to the implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6).

This webinar marks the launch of the Global Youth Movement for Water (GYMW) Capacity Development Series, an eight-part online programme designed to equip young water professionals, students, researchers and youth organisations with the knowledge, skills and networks needed to engage meaningfully in the lead-up to the Conference.

During this introductory session, participants will gain an overview of the 2026 UN Water Conference, the six Interactive Dialogues, and the opportunities available for youth participation throughout the preparatory process. The webinar will also introduce the Global Youth Movement for Water and explain how participants can contribute to the development of a collective Youth Position Statement for the Conference.

This session is the starting point for a global learning journey that will connect young people with international experts, policymakers and fellow youth leaders working to advance water security, sanitation and sustainable development.

Partners: -ISW -UNESCO -IWA -Water Youth Network -AJPEAS -AFR'EAU -Wavemakers United

• 1st webinar: Introduction to the 2026 UN Water Conference and the Global Youth Movement for Water
• 2nd webinar: Water for Planet: Nature-based Solutions to Protect Aquatic Ecosystems
• 3rd webinar: Water for Prosperity: Empowering Youth, Shaping Prosperity Through Water
• 4th webinar: Water for Finance: Youth dialogue on Investments, Financing, Innovation and Impact
• 5th webinar: Water for People: Advancing Equitable Access to Water and Sanitation

This webinar is open to:

• Young Water Professionals
• Students and early-career professionals
• Youth-led organisations
• Young researchers and academics
• Young entrepreneurs
• Members of civil society organisations
• Anyone interested in water, sanitation, climate, sustainable development and youth engagement

Participation is free, but registration is required.

By participating in this webinar, you will:

• Understand the objectives and preparatory process of the 2026 UN Water Conference.
• Learn about the six Interactive Dialogues that will shape the Conference outcomes.
• Discover opportunities for meaningful youth engagement before, during and after the Conference.
• Become familiar with the Global Youth Movement for Water and its partners.
• Learn how to participate in the Capacity Development Series and contribute to the Youth Position Statement.

What you will learn

• The objectives and structure of the 2026 UN Water Conference.
• The six Interactive Dialogues and why they matter.
• How young people can participate in the Conference process.
• The role of the Global Youth Movement for Water.
• How to contribute to the Youth Position Statement.

-International Secretariat for Water (ISW); -International Water Association; -Water Youth Network; -Un Major Group for Children and Youth; -Arab Youth Center; -UNESCO;

This webinar is the first of an eight-part Capacity Development Series organised by the Global Youth Movement for Water in preparation for the 2026 UN Water Conference. Participants are encouraged to attend the full series to deepen their understanding of each Interactive Dialogue and contribute to the collective Youth Position Statement.