The UN Water Convention (Convention on the Protection and Use of Transboundary Watercourses and International Lakes) has grown from a European/North American focus to a global framework, with members including many European, Central Asian, African (like Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon) and some Latin American nations (like Panama), with Bangladesh becoming the 56th party on June 20, 2025. In doing so, Bangladesh becomes the first country in South Asia to accede to the Convention.
The move highlights Bangladesh’s commitment to sustainable water management amid growing challenges, including rising sea levels, salinity intrusion gaps in safe sanitation for 65 million people. The nation’s 57 transboundary rivers, notably the Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna system, make cross-border water cooperation essential for environmental sustainability and regional stability.
“Accession to the UN Water Convention is a landmark step for Bangladesh,” said Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Adviser to the Government on Water Resources and Environment. “It will help us craft more inclusive and effective water policies to address climate change and rising demand.”
Bangladesh already maintains bilateral water agreements and institutions, such as the Joint Rivers Commission and the Ganges Water Sharing Treaty with India, and continues cooperation with Nepal, China Bhutan.
Tatiana Molcean, Executive Secretary of UNECE, called it a significant move for South Asia, while Sonja Koeppel, Secretary to the UN Water Convention, encouraged other nations to follow suit.
Bangladesh’s accession strengthens regional cooperation, climate resilience long-term water security.
Asia Pacific Newslog 