Extensive Programme Ahead As Countdown begins To The 2026 IWA World Water Congress & Exhibition

Technical excellence, global participation, and leadership exchanges on the agenda at the IWA World Water Congress & Exhibition, 4-8 October 2026 in Glasgow, UK

London, UK - With just three months to go, the International Water Association (IWA) is preparing to stage its 2026 IWA World Water Congress & Exhibition under the theme ‘Water action – the path to resilience and prosperity’. The Preliminary Programme reveals an ambitious week of world-class technical content, high-level leadership forums, technical tours, networking events and innovation showcases that will bring together thousands of water professionals from around the world.

During the event, leading scientists, utility executives, policymakers, engineers, solution providers, businesses and young water professionals will exchange latest insights on solutions to the world's most pressing water challenges.

The Preliminary Programme highlights a week of discussions spanning six core technical themes, complemented by keynote sessions, plenary debates, specialist and business forums and an integrated international exhibition. It reflects the breadth of challenges and opportunities facing the global water sector—from climate resilience and digital transformation to public health, resource recovery and water security.

Kizito Masinde, Global Events Director at the International Water Association, said:

"Above all, the Congress is where the global water community comes together. It is a unique space to connect with utilities, researchers, policymakers, and innovators, fostering collaboration, exchanging knowledge, and accelerating action towards a more sustainable and resilient water future."

At the heart of the week is the core programme of some 100 technical sessions and 60 workshops. The 2026 programme has been developed to ensure both scientific excellence and practical relevance.

Professor Amy Pruden and Professor Zhiguo Yuan, Co-Chairs of the Congress Programme Committee, said:

"This will be an excellent programme because it reflects both the breadth of the water sector and the urgency of the issues we face. It brings together technical excellence with real-world relevance, spanning the full water cycle while creating space for dialogue on resilience, sustainability, innovation, governance, and public health."

Underlining the value of the event as a platform for exchanging latest insights from around the world, Congress Co-Presidents Peter Simpson and Alex Plant added:

“The scale of the challenges ahead mean that we need to impress upon decision-makers across the world that adopting systems-thinking, and putting that into practice, will be essential to protecting and enhancing access to clean water and effective sanitation for all nations. Delivering a cross-cutting water transition is surely the most pressing issue facing the world today. And it is a challenge we must address effectively if we are to protect peaceful co-existence, foster sustainable growth, respond to the nature crisis, and remain resilient to more extreme weather patterns.”

Latest details on the activities are available at www.worldwatercongress.org

Media Accreditation Now Open

With just three months remaining until the event, media accreditation is now open.

Journalists, editors, broadcasters and recognised media organisations are invited to apply for accreditation to gain access to one of the year's most important international water events. Accredited media will have opportunities to:

• Interview global water leaders, policymakers and researchers
• Attend keynote sessions and high-level forums
• Report on major announcements and emerging innovations
• Access international experts covering the full spectrum of water management
• Connect with organisations and companies shaping the future of the global water sector

Applications are particularly encouraged from UK and European media, alongside specialist international water publications and relevant global media organisations. Accreditation is subject to approval by the International Water Association.

The Preliminary Programme is available now at www.worldwatercongress.org/programme.

Media accreditation information can be found at www.worldwatercongress.org/media.

About the IWA World Water Congress & Exhibition

The IWA World Water Congress & Exhibition is the leading global event for water and allied professionals, covering the full water cycle. Organised biennially by the International Water Association, it brings together thought leaders, researchers, utility executives, policymakers, technology providers and businesses to shape the future of water through science, innovation, policy and practice. The 2026 edition will take place in Glasgow, United Kingdom, from 4–8 October 2026 under the theme "Water action – the path to resilience and prosperity."

About the International Water Association

The International Water Association (IWA) is a global network of water professionals, researchers, and practitioners committed to achieving sustainable water solutions. IWA connects people and organisations to drive innovation, knowledge, and best practices in water management. Through its diverse membership and collaborative platforms, IWA strives to tackle pressing water challenges and shape a sustainable future. https://www.iwa-network.org/

IWA has members in more than 140 countries worldwide, with a network of 10,000+ water professionals working towards a water wise world. Through this network, IWA organises and supports more than 30 events around the world each year.