The escalation of water scarcity is one of the most impelling challenges facing Arab countries. Fast paced population growth, climate change, changing consumption patterns are all factors that are adding pressure to the already limited resources across the region.

Acknowledging the urgency and scale of the water issues faced by the Arab countries the FAO will take active part in the fourth Arab Water Forum, which will be convened by the Arab Water Council in Cairo from 26- 28 November, 2017.

The FAO will contribute technical expertise to some four sessions of the Forum, bringing forward challenges and solution options related to the use and management of scarce water resources in the region.

The Forum will engage all water-interest groups, governments, civil society representatives, academia and stakeholders from the region in debates about the current water policies and actions and their efficacy in contributing to the water security of the Arab countries.

The FAO's contribution to the Arab Forum is part of the Regional Water Scarcity Initiative, launched in 2013 to promote cooperation among NENA countries for the sustainable improvement of agricultural productivity in a context of water scarcity and climatic changes.

Below you can find the list of panels and special sessions FAO is participating in: