Jakarta, January 23, 2025 - ASEAN Institute for Peace and Reconciliation (ASEAN IPR) held a hybrid discussion ‘Fostering Water Diplomacy: Advancing ASEAN's Regional Water Security Agenda’ to explore and identify the concept and practice of water diplomacy as a means for tension and disputes prevention and mitigation in shared water resources, thereby promoting water security in the Southeast Asia region. Furthermore, the cooperation and consensus-building among ASEAN states, referred to as the “ASEAN Way,” may enhance water diplomacy practices across multiple diplomacy tracks and levels, involving non-traditional state actors to contribute to the water security agenda.
Attended by the UN Secretary-General Special Envoy on Water, Mrs Retno Marsudi and Mr Antti Rautavaara, Special Envoy for Water, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Finland, both emphasizing the water cooperation has become a powerful force for peace and unity. At the heart of this regional effort is the Mekong River Commission, which plays a pivotal role in managing the waters that bind the nations of the region together. Through the ASEAN Working Group, countries have come together to foster collaboration, addressing water issues that impact millions of lives. Partnerships with global organizations help strengthen sustainable practices, while the utilization of data empowers informed decision-making to safeguard this precious resource. Furthermore, learning exchanges and innovative financing are proving essential in overcoming challenges, as countries work side by side to secure water resources and build resilience in the face of ever-growing demands. Together, these collaborative efforts are laying the foundation for long-term regional water security, ensuring peace and prosperity for generations to come.
Figure 2 Left to right: Dr Surasri, Mrs Louise and Dr Vong Sok © ASEAN Secretariat 2025
Global Water Partnership Southeast Asia, through Deputy Regional Coordinator, Mrs Louise Maryonoputri were play a role in moderating the discussion with Dr Surasri Kidmonton, a Chairperson of the Mekong River Commission Joint Committee for 2024 and Secretary-General of the Office of the National Water Resources (ONWR) Thailand also a Secretary-General of the Thai National Mekong Committee Secretariat, along with Dr. Vong Sok, Head of the Environment Division Assistant Director of the Sustainable Development Directorate ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community Department ASEAN Secretariat.
The discussion most highlighted the shared water resources that flow across borders are more than just a lifeline in Southeast Asia—they are critical to the region’s peace and security. With increasing demand and variable supply, the management of these transboundary waters has become a complex challenge that directly impacts the stability of the region. Water diplomacy has emerged as a vital tool in addressing these challenges, offering a framework for mitigating tensions and fostering collaboration.
Through diplomatic channels, countries have been able to negotiate and apply principles that promote the sustainable use of water while preventing conflicts. Drawing from real-world experiences and best practices within ASEAN frameworks, the region has made significant strides in transboundary water cooperation, offering valuable lessons for improving water diplomacy across various levels and tracks. As nations continue to navigate these shared waters, the lessons learned, and collaborative efforts will shape the future of water security and regional peace.
Access and catching up the event by watch the recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/K6y4v3eh_RM?feature=shared