Why an Institute of Water Policy

About 700 million people in the Asia Pacific region lack access to safe water and about 2 billion lack access to basic sanitation facilities. Countries such as China, India, Indonesia, Vietnam, Pakistan and the Philippines face significant water challenges. Reducing poverty, improving the levels of food, nutrition and public health cannot be achieved without safe and reliable water supply. Efficient water management is also essential for sustainable economic development, ensuring energy security and protecting the environment.

To meet these challenges, the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy established the Institute of Water Policy in June 2008. The mission of the School is to provide opportunities for the education and training of next generation of Asian policymakers and leaders, with the objective of raising the standards of governance and improving the lives of the people in the region and, in so doing, contribute to the transformation of Asia.

To support this mission, the Institute of Water Policy will:

• Undertake research on water policy & governance in Asia
• Provide opportunities for education and training on water policy and governance
• Serve as a knowledge hub for water governance in Asia

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IWP in the news: http://www.adb.org/

What we can offer

The Institute will undertake research, education, advice and consultancy and provide a forum for a dialogue on water policy and governance. The research program will initially cover several thematic areas namely:

• Structural, macro and long term water policy and governance issues
• Emerging global trends affecting water policy
• Legislative, regulatory and institutional frameworks
• Inter-linkages between water, energy and food policies
• Water, poverty alleviation and environmental conservation
• Economic instruments for water management
• Water resources management
• Water quality management

       The IWP will work with a network of collaborators in key countries to research on these water policy issues and communicate the research results to policy makers and professionals in the region. The IWP will share its research findings in conferences, publications, and lead discussions in forums and seminars to ensure the applications of its research.

Funding, Partnerships and Networks

IWP is funded by a $7.5million grant by the Government of Singapore. It is also a strategic partner of Singapore’s Public Utilities Board. In addition, IWP is a member of the Asia Pacific Water Forum Knowledge Hubs, a network of 12 leading water knowledge centers in the region. IWP has been designated to provide leadership in the areas of water policy and governance.

These photos illustrate the many facets water and the role it plays in the lives of people.
(Photo credits: Asian Development Bank)