Let us recognise and celebrate the vital role that rivers play in sustaining life—supporting ecosystems, biodiversity, and the livelihoods

Today, on the International Day of Action for Rivers, let us recognise and celebrate the vital role that rivers play in sustaining life—supporting ecosystems, biodiversity, and the livelihoods of billions of people. This annual observance, established in 1997 in Brazil, emerged from a global movement to protect rivers and the communities that depend on them. It is a day to reflect, raise awareness, and take meaningful action to safeguard these essential lifelines of our planet.

This year’s theme, “Our Rivers, Our Future,” serves as a powerful reminder that the health of our rivers is directly tied to our collective well-being, in fact our very survival. Nowhere is this more evident than in the Hindu Kush Himalayan (HKH) region, home to some of the world’s most vital transboundary rivers, including the Indus, Ganges, and Yarlung Zangbo-Brahmaputra. These rivers nourish an estimated 1.8 billion people downstream, providing water, food and energy across vast landscapes. However, climate change, unsustainable development, pollution, and water governance challenges threaten their health and the future of dependent communities.

At ICIMOD, we recognize that the future of these rivers depends on collaborative, science-based action. Through our River Basins initiative, we work closely with riparian nations to promote regional cooperation, integrated water governance, and climate-resilient policies. Our research in cryosphere monitoring, water security, and ecosystem-based adaptation is helping to shape sustainable solutions that protect these rivers and ensure they continue to support the people and biodiversity that rely on them.

But safeguarding our rivers requires a shared commitment. We must work together—across borders and sectors—to restore degraded river systems, uphold the right to clean water, and empower local communities to have a voice in shaping water policies. Whether through advocacy, sustainable policies, or grassroots action, we all have a role to play.

On this International Day of Action for Rivers, ICIMOD stands in solidarity with riverine communities, policymakers, and scientists striving to protect our freshwater ecosystems. Let this be a call to action—to preserve our rivers not just for today, but for generations to come.
Pema Gyamtsho,
Director General,
International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development.