Event: International Water Association (IWA) Governing Assembly 2025

Date: September 2025

Location: Hybrid

Role: Attendee

Type of CPD: International governance / strategic sector leadership / global collaboration

Duration: Half‑day assembly (formal proceedings + strategic updates + voting/consultation items)

Summary of the Event

I attended the IWA Governing Assembly 2025, the annual formal meeting of IWA’s global governance body. The Assembly brings together representatives from national committees, specialist groups, utilities, research institutions and industry partners to review the Association’s strategic direction, approve governance matters and shape priorities for the coming years.

The 2025 Assembly focused on strengthening IWA’s role in global water leadership, advancing science‑based practice, supporting young water professionals, and accelerating innovation adoption across utilities and cities worldwide. Updates were provided on IWA’s programmes, membership, financial position, upcoming congresses and thematic priorities.

Key Themes Covered

• Global water governance and strategic direction IWA’s mission, long‑term priorities, and alignment with global water challenges.
• Climate resilience and environmental performance The role of IWA in supporting adaptation, nature‑positive strategies and pollution reduction.
• Innovation, science and digital transformation Strengthening the global community of practice around sensing, analytics and optimisation.
• Young Water Professionals (YWP) development Expanding leadership pathways, mentoring and international mobility.
• Membership, partnerships and financial sustainability Ensuring IWA remains a strong, globally connected organisation.
• International events and knowledge exchange Updates on World Water Congresses, specialist conferences and regional programmes.