The 10th World Water Forum 2024 in Nusa Dua, Bali, officially wrapped up on the night of Friday, May 24, 2024, marking a historic event for the global water community. The forum saw a significant increase in participation, with the number of attendees soaring to 64,000. This record-breaking gathering culminated in the creation of the Compendium of Concrete Deliverables and Actions, a landmark achievement in the forum’s history. What does this compendium entail? Let’s delve into the details.
Basuki Hadimuljono, Indonesia’s Minister of Public Works and Public Housing (PUPR), officially closed the international event at the Bali International Convention Center (BICC) in Nusa Dua, Bali.
“We have successfully achieved all the agendas proposed by Indonesia,” Basuki stated, highlighting the forum’s success. “The number of participants exceeded our expectations, increasing from an initial estimate of 46,000 to 64,000.”
Despite this success, Basuki, who also served as the Daily Chair of the 10th World Water Forum 2024, emphasized that there is still much work to be done. “The various commitments made must be followed up with concrete actions and a strong sense of ownership,” he noted.
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For the first time in the World Water Forum’s history, the event resulted in the Compendium of Concrete Deliverables and Actions. This comprehensive document includes 113 water and sanitation projects valued at USD 9.4 billion, supported by 33 countries and 53 international organizations. These entities act as donors and beneficiaries, ensuring the delivery of vital water and sanitation services.
“The compendium launched at the ministerial meeting must be realized to provide tangible benefits to the community,” Basuki urged.
Basuki also stressed the importance of enhancing collaboration among stakeholders. Addressing water and sanitation challenges requires a holistic and cross-sectoral approach.
The 10th World Water Forum also produced a Ministerial Declaration, providing clear direction amidst global challenges. Key highlights include Indonesia’s proposal for World Lake Day, the establishment of a Center of Excellence for water and climate resilience, and the promotion of integrated water resource management on small islands.
These initiatives complement the United Nations’ Water Action Agenda, adding significant momentum to global water efforts.
Loic Fauchon, President of the World Water Forum, expressed his gratitude to the Indonesian government and the people of Indonesia for their exceptional hospitality and support in successfully hosting the forum.
The event began with the Melukat ritual and concluded with the Melasti ceremony, both traditional water purification practices in Bali. The forum was attended by five heads of state: President of Indonesia Joko Widodo, President of Fiji Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere, President of Sri Lanka Ranil Wickremesinghe, Prime Minister of Morocco Aziz Akhannouch, and Prime Minister of Tajikistan Qohir Rasulzoda.
Former President of Hungary Janos Ader also participated as a special envoy. A total of 51 ministers, 57 high-ranking officials, 27 international organizations, and 135 ministerial-level representatives were present. Additionally, 200 members of parliament from 49 countries, 150 local and regional officials from 23 countries, and 847 subregional representatives attended.
The unprecedented success of the 10th World Water Forum underscores the global commitment to addressing water and sanitation challenges. With the Compendium of Concrete Deliverables and Actions, the forum has set a new standard for future gatherings, paving the way for sustainable solutions and stronger international cooperation in the water sector.
