The Partnership
The Global Water Partnership (GWP) is a multi-stakeholder network dedicated to improving water governance and mobilising climate-resilient investments for a sustainable and equitable future.
Founded in 1996, GWP comprises 13 independently managed Regional Water Partnerships, 77 Country Water Partnerships, and a network of over 2,800 Partners across 182 countries. Through its Country and Regional Water Partnerships, GWP provides a neutral platform that connects stakeholders at all levels to develop and implement solutions for water security and climate resilience.
The Organisation
The Global Water Partnership Organisation (GWPO) is an Intergovernmental Organisation (IGO) that supports the Global Water Partnership (the network) in advancing water governance and mobilising climate-resilient investments.
Established in 2002 by its Sponsoring Partners – the World Bank, the World Meteorological Organisation, and the Governments of Sweden, the Netherlands, Denmark, Chile, Hungary, Jordan, Pakistan and Argentina, GWPO provides strategic leadership and strengthens collaboration across GWP’s Regional and Country Water Partnerships. Alex Simalabwi serves as the CEO of GWPO and Executive Secretary of GWP. The Executive Secretary reports to the Steering Committee, chaired by Pablo Bereciartua, and is supported with expert guidance from a Technical Committee, chaired by Jaehyang So. GWP is overseen by its Sponsoring Partners, its ultimate governing body. The Global Secretariat, currently based in Stockholm, coordinates programmes, partnerships, and advocacy efforts.
A Network in Transformation
Announced in February 2025, the Global Water Partnership Organisation (GWPO) and its Regional Water Partnerships worldwide are embarking on a Global Transformation Agenda to accelerate and scale up mobilisation and deployment of climate-resilient water investments.
About the Global Transformation Agenda
Spearheaded by GWP, the Global Transformation Agenda on Water Investments aims to:
- Drive high-level engagement with G20 and global leaders through the Global Transformation Council, comprising former and current Heads of State
- Scale up financial partnerships with MDBs, climate funds, and private investors to unlock new financing mechanisms
- Decentralise the Global Water Partnership Organisation into 4 Technical Support Hubs across Africa, Asia-Pacific, Latin America & Caribbean, and Europe, working jointly with GWP Regional Water Partnerships to accelerate programming and delivery for climate resilience water investment solutions for countries and partners
- Establish the GWPO Transition Office in South Africa to lead the transition and relocation of GWP’s global secretariat