Partner Outreach Series
Water Diplomacy Roundtable
22 September 2021, 1:00 – 2:30pm AEDT, via Zoom
This virtual roundtable was hosted by AWP on the topic of water diplomacy as part of its Partner Outreach Series. Speakers Nandita Baruah (The Asia Foundation), Dr John Dore (DFAT Bangkok), and Tony Slatyer (Water Policy Group) presented to a group of 26 AWP Partners with Q&A. The roundtable was facilitated by Tamerlaine Beasley (Beasley Intercultural) with remarks by Michael Wilson (AWP):
What is water diplomacy? In AWP, we are aiming to increase our understanding of power in development processes, how interests converge and diverge over certain issues, and how power and interests are shaped. In this way, we expect to increase the impact of our programs, in design and throughout implementation.
But water diplomacy is more than this. It also includes Australian engagement in international forums – for example this year’s UNFCCC Conference of Parties in Glasgow, and the many other conventions and agreements that touch on water. There is a transboundary element too, as well as helping to contribute to the relationship between Australia and other countries where we work. There are other parts too, and I am looking forward to hearing from our three experts on their perspectives; and to an open and engaged conversation with partners.