Support to the programme of work of the Convention on the Protection and Use of Transboundary Watercourses and International Lakes

Description What is done in the programme or project and why, what results are pursued, who benefits from the activities and who are involved in the implementation.

The Convention on the Protection and Use of Transboundary Watercourses and International Lakes (1992) creates a framework for regional transboundary water cooperation. UNECE Water Convention aims to protect and ensure the quantity, quality and sustainable use of transboundary water resources by facilitating cooperation. The Convention reduces conflicts and enhances security. It prevents and reduces pollution with transboundary impact. The Convention turned into a universally available legal framework for transboundary water cooperation, following the entry into force of amendments in 2016, opening it to all UN Member States. Several ODA eligible countries have joined the Convention or are interested in ratifying the Convention, which adds to the global impact the Convention has in promoting transboundary water cooperation. Finland has an active role in global transboundary cooperation. Finland has co-operated with the UNECE Water Convention Secretariat on policy issues and the MFA has also financed UNECE water projects in Central Asia. Finland is represented in the Water Convention Bureau as well as the most important working groups. The proposed support to the UNECE Water Convention Programme of work for 2022-2024 will be directed to the implementation of the programme of work as a whole with ODA eligible countries as direct beneficiaries.