Water scarcity is one of the major challenges of the 21st century. There is unprecedented pressure and competition for water resources due to factors such as population growth and mobility, economic development, urbanization, changes in traditional diets, migration and pollution. FAO estimates that more than 40% of the world’ s rural population in river basins are classified as water scarce (2011). In the Middle East, Northern Africa and Central Asia, many countries are already withdrawing in excess of critical thresholds. This situation is exacerbated by growing climate change effects and bio-energy demands in many parts of the world. Irrigation is by far the main user of freshwater in the world, with an average of 70% of all water withdrawals, reaching peaks of above 90% in many developing countries. Sustainable and efficient water management practices in agriculture are key to the success of the 2030 Agenda and offer many climate change benefits.

 Israel is considered a country with “absolute” water scarcity (<500 m3 per year per capita). Water management in Israel is characterized by limited freshwater resources, poor natural distribution of those resources, and a growing and dispersed population. Israel is one of the countries in the world that has dedicated the greatest efforts and resources to cope with water scarcity. Over the years, Israel has accumulated significant knowledge and developed effective strategies to foster productive agriculture in a context of water scarcity. Efforts have been invested through national water programs to promote irrigation research, efficient irrigation technologies, close monitoring of water withdrawals, and training and technical assistance to farmers. Furthermore, Israel has become a global leader in innovative water technology industries. Israel is also implementing new strategies to face the emerging challenges related to recurrent droughts, climate change, increased water demands and over-exploitation of groundwater resources.