The University of Balamand (UOB) in collaboration with The Cyprus Institute (CyI) and in cooperation with Institut Méditerranéen de l’Eau (IME), organized the second World Water Day on March 26, 2026 titled: “Where Water Flows, Equality Grows”. The webinar brought together distinguished experts, academics, and policymakers to address the intersection of water management and gender equality in the Mediterranean region.
This webinar highlighted the importance of integrating gender equality into water governance, showcasing women’s leadership and successful initiatives in the sector. It also emphasized the role of education, research, and policy in promoting inclusive water management, while fostering Mediterranean cooperation through hydro-diplomacy and contributing to a shared vision for sustainable development and peace.
Prof. Fadi Comair, Senior Executive Adviser to UOB President for Strategic Sustainability and Global Development and Former Chair and Vice Chair of UNESCO International Hydrological Programme, stated: “In the Mediterranean region, where water scarcity, climate change, and socio-political complexities intersect, gender-responsive water governance becomes even more critical. It is here that hydro-diplomacy, regional cooperation, and the Water-Energy-Food-Ecosystems (WEFE) Nexus approach offer powerful frameworks to foster sustainable peace and shared prosperity.”
H.E Stavros Malas, President of the Cyprus Institute, talked about the institute’s efforts to understand and highlight the impacts of climate change in the region. He also underlined the belief that scientists should play a leading role in developing evidence-based policies. H.E Malas also noted the importance of this webinar, which bring together knowledge, collaboration, and action to address the pressing challenges posed by climate change.
Prof. Elias Warrak, President of UOB stated: “Water is not just the essence of life; it embodies dignity, protects health, and creates opportunities. It defines justice in an increasingly unequal world.” He also shed light on the vital role of academic institutions in addressing water challenges through research, policy, diplomacy, and regional cooperation: “At UOB, we believe that universities are not only centers of knowledge, but also agents and catalysts of change.”
Col. Symeon Zambas, Head of the Cyprus Security & Defense Academy and Chair of the Executive Academic Board of the European Security and Defence College, emphasized that engaging women, particularly in leadership roles, is crucial for inclusive decision-making. He also explained that hydro-diplomacy and climate security are no longer optional topics, but central pillars for achieving sustainable peace and development.
A panel discussion followed, featuring leading experts including Dr. Chrysanthia Leontiou, Ms. Yana Abou Taleb, Prof. Foteini Asderaki, and Ms. Sarantuyaa Zandaryaa. The panel explored the role of women in water diplomacy, education, and policy-making, while addressing the socio-economic impacts of water scarcity and climate change on vulnerable communities.
Concluding remarks were delivered by Mr. Alain Meysonnier, President of the Institut Méditerranéen de l’Eau, who emphasized the importance of strengthening regional partnerships and fostering dialogue among Mediterranean countries to tackle shared water challenges.
In closing, Prof. Michael Scoullos, Chair of GWP-Med, emphasized that water serves as a vital link and bond between people, communities, and nations. He highlighted that peace through water can only be achieved by placing gender at the center of governance and decision-making processes. He stressed that empowering women and ensuring their active participation is essential to sustainable peacebuilding, fostering inclusive cooperation, and creating lasting solutions to water challenges across the Mediterranean region.
Through this webinar, UOB and its partners, reaffirm their dedication to promoting environmental sustainability, gender equality, and regional cooperation. The event highlighted the critical role of inclusive approaches in addressing water-related challenges and building a more resilient and equitable future for the Mediterranean region.