29 August 2012: UN-Water and the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) have launched the International Year of Water Cooperation and World Water Day 2013 website. The website highlights the objectives of the International Year of Water Cooperation, provides lists of events associated with the event and campaign materials, and features a media corner.

The website also launches a contest for the official slogan of the year, offering a trip to Paris, France, for the official launch of the International Year of Water Cooperation, and introduces Goccia, the mascot of the year. The International Year of Water Cooperation was declared by the UN General Assembly (UNGA) to raise awareness about the importance of cooperation to address challenges posed by increases water demand. [UN International Year of Water Cooperation Website] [UNESCO Press Release]