Arab Youth Sustainable Development Network Participates in the 2nd Stakeholder Consultation Meeting on the Road to the 11th World Water Forum
The Arab Youth Sustainable Development Network (AYSDN) participated in the 2nd Stakeholder Consultation Meeting, held on 28–29 June 2026 as part of Saudi Water Week 2026 in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The meeting brought together representatives of governments, international organizations, development partners, academia, civil society, youth, and the private sector to support preparations for the 11th World Water Forum, which will take place in Riyadh in 2027.
The consultation marked an important step on the Road to Riyadh 2027, providing stakeholders with an opportunity to help shape the Forum’s political, thematic, and regional processes. The World Water Forum is the world’s largest international gathering dedicated to water. Held every three years, it brings together decision-makers, experts, civil society organizations, researchers, young people, and private-sector actors to discuss major water challenges and advance practical responses. Since its first edition in Marrakech, Morocco, in 1997, the Forum has become a leading global platform for cooperation, policy dialogue, and action on water. Its return to the MENA region in 2027 carries particular significance for a region facing growing pressures related to water scarcity, climate change, and sustainable development. AYSDN is also part of the Riyadh Water Youth Committee (RWYC), the official youth committee established as part of the preparations for the 11th World Water Forum.
The Committee brings together youth representatives and organizations to promote meaningful and inclusive participation throughout the Forum process. Through the RWYC, AYSDN continues to strengthen youth engagement across the Forum’s thematic, regional, and political processes, while supporting the inclusion of young people’s priorities and perspectives, particularly those from the Arab region. The meeting featured discussions on a wide range of issues, including water security, water finance, governance and diplomacy, water for people and ecosystems, innovation in water management, regional cooperation, climate resilience, and the value of water. The programme also included a dedicated youth session, regional consultations, political dialogues, technical sessions, and an interprocess discussion focused on consolidating key outcomes and advancing preparations for Riyadh 2027. AYSDN’s participation reflects its continued commitment to ensuring that young people from the Arab region are meaningfully represented in international water-governance processes and are able to contribute to more inclusive, cooperative, and sustainable responses to water and climate challenges.