The role of the United Nations in Water Resources Development

Abstract

The United Nations system of organization undertakes a wide range of water-related activities in the developing countries. The range includes hydrological surveys, community water supply schemes, water legislation, institutional and planning needs, ground and surface water managment and development, disease control, flood-loss prevention and environmental protection. Emphasis is given in this paper to the changing needs of the developing countries, and to the future role of the organization of the UN system in responding to these needs.

The responsibilities and some activities of the Water Resources Branch in the UN Secretariat are indicated to illustrate the nature of the work programme of one of the eighteen organizations of the UN system involved in water resources development.