IC-RIVERS: An International Center for Sustainable River Management

IC-RIVERS is an international center focused on the sustainable management of large river basins. It addresses key topics such as flood and drought management, sediment transport, water law and policy, ecohydrology, integrated water resources management (IWRM), and the impacts of climate change.

The center’s mission is to tackle water and environmental challenges through interdisciplinary scientific research and regional and global actions. As part of the World’s Large Rivers Initiative (WLRI), IC-RIVERS examines the status and future of the world’s major rivers. This initiative, supported by UNESCO and its International Hydrological Programme (IHP), contributes to achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

By building networks, fostering international knowledge exchange, and offering educational programs, IC-RIVERS strengthens the connection between research and practice. The center develops long-term strategic concepts for the sustainable protection and use of large rivers, aligning with UNESCO’s mission to promote peace, poverty reduction, and sustainable development. This is in line with UNESCO’s goal of enhancing the capacities of higher education and research institutions through knowledge exchange and international solidarity.