31 January 2017: Within the framework of monitoring the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) International Hydrological Programme (IHP) launched the Water Information Network System (WINS). The UNESCO-IHP WINS aims to provide UNESCO member States and other stakeholders with an open source, open access web platform and a global reference on water-related issues.

The WINS launch took place on 31 January 2017 at UNESCO headquarters in Paris, France. The platform fosters data exchange among stakeholders, interdisciplinary cooperation and the creation of networks. Users will be able to create tailor-made maps and other products to meet their specific needs, incorporating information about arid zones, rainfall, transboundary water basins and irrigation.

With data from global sources such as AQUASTAT, the World Health Organization (WHO)/ UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) joint monitoring programme, the UN Statistics Division (UNSTAT) and other UNESCO partners, WINS will compile validated data concerning the water cycle. The System will also feature key UNESCO programmes that address water-related issues, notably World Heritage, Biosphere Reserves and UNESCO Global Geoparks.

The development of WINS follows up on a 2016 resolution adopted by the IHP’s Intergovernmental Council to help member States implement SDG 6 on clean water and sanitation. [UNESCO Press Release] [WINS Webpage] [WINS Launch Information]