Water Security Forum for Atoll Nations Begins in Malé

The Climate-Induced Water Security in Atoll Nations Forum has commenced in Malé, bringing together regional representatives and experts to address growing water security challenges faced by small island states.

The three-day forum is being held from 7 to 9 April at Barceló Nasandhura and is organised by the Climate Change Department of the Ministry of Tourism and Environment.

The Maldives is hosting the event in its capacity as chair of the Coalition of Atoll Nations on Climate Change (CANCC). The forum has brought together representatives, development partners, technical experts and stakeholders from Kiribati, Tuvalu, the Marshall Islands and Tokelau.

Minister of Tourism and Environment Thoriq Ibrahim stated that climate change has intensified water security challenges across atoll nations. He highlighted ongoing issues such as reduced rainfall, prolonged heat conditions and saltwater intrusion into freshwater sources affecting the Maldives and other island states.

Water security continues to be identified as a national priority, aligned with the Maldives’ Third Nationally Determined Contribution under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. Efforts are ongoing to strengthen sustainable water supply systems through infrastructure development, technological solutions and community-based initiatives.

The forum features a series of sessions focused on practical approaches, including improvements to desalination systems, rainwater harvesting, water production, and groundwater management and protection.

The discussions are expected to contribute to identifying long-term solutions to the increasing water security challenges faced by atoll nations.