Water, the essence of life, faces unprecedented threats from conflicts, climate change, and governance failures. The summit emphasized that without sustainable water management, the world’s crises—including food security, energy shortages, environmental degradation, and social instability—will persist. Leaders reaffirmed their dedication to water preservation and protection, drawing inspiration from the Bandung Principles of 1955, which championed mutual respect, sustainable development, and the power of youth in shaping the future.
Leaders reunited at the International Symposium on Water and Disaster for Cooperation and Partnerships concluding with a resounding call for global leaders to take urgent action on critical water-related issues. Held in Tokyo, Japan, the event convened world leaders, experts, and stakeholders to reaffirm their commitment to addressing global water challenges through the principles of the Bandung Spirit.
During the summit, keynote addresses were delivered by prominent figures, including Mrs. Retno Marsudi, UNSG’s Special Envoy on Water, Club de Madrid Member Jigmi Yoezer Thinley, former Prime Minister of Bhutan; Vice President of Club de Madrid and former Prime Minister of Korea Han Seung–soo; and President of Club de Madrid Danilo Türk, former President of Slovenia. Their speeches highlighted the interconnectedness of water security and global stability, calling for collective action to protect water resources for future generations.
Organized by High-level Experts and Leaders Panel on Water and Disasters (HELP) and co-organized by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism of Japan / UN Centre for Regional Development (UNCRD)/UNDESA, the summit underscored the indispensable role of water in sustaining peace, mitigating climate change, and ensuring sanitation for all.
Club de Madrid Member Jigmi Yoezer Thinley, former Prime Minister of Bhutan, highlighted the importance that water disasters are going to suppose for humanity if we don’t take action:
“In repeating that water has become the biggest cause of all natural disasters I wish to submit that these, as scientifically confirmed, are signals of Mother Nature reaching out in distress”.
“Fresh water, the primary source and sustenance of all life is beginning to diminish, evaporate. And competition and tensions are escalating not only on fresh water but all forms of water and their invaluable assets”.
