United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ECSWA)

• The region covered by the ESCWA member countries is about 4.75 million square kilometres, of which about 97.7 per cent is classified as arid and semi arid. Therefore, water in this region is very scarce with large geographical and seasonal variations and increasing competition for water among consuming sections.
Through activities, such as preparing studies, and convening expert group meetings and training workshops, the Natural Resources Section aims to increase awareness of the seriousness of water problems in the region and to encourage the decision makers and water professionals to give priority to improve and integrate water planning and management into all development activities. In this regard, the Natural Resources Section also works to strengthen cooperation among ESCWA members to make water a venue of cooperation on shared water sources.