Dutch Water Authorities, IHE Delft and Rotary Netherlands strengthen cooperation to tackle water challenges 

In a step toward more effective and inclusive water solutions worldwide, leadership of the Dutch Water Authorities (Unie van Waterschappen), IHE Delft Institute for Water Education, and Rotary Netherlands gathered at the annual Rotary Water Congress on Saturday 10 May 2025 to sign a Letter of Intent (LoI) to strengthen their strategic collaboration for the next four years.

With this signing, the three organisations build on earlier informal collaborations within the Dutch Water Authorities’ international Blue Deal programme. The Letter of Intent marks a shared commitment to combine their complementary knowledge, networks, capacities and expertise to increase their joint impact in the fields of water safety, water availability, water quality, and good water governance. 

Collaboration

This enhanced collaboration reflects a shared ambition: to strengthen the global response to growing water-related challenges, especially in light of climate change. Key areas of collaboration include: 

  • Exchanging information on current and upcoming projects, including training and education opportunities 
  • Exploring collaborations within the Blue Deal partner, IHE Delft and Rotary networks  
  • Investigating co-funding opportunities for specific water-related projects 

The Letter of Intent was signed on behalf of the three organisations by Luzette Kroon (Dutch Water Authorities), Prof. Dr. Eddy Moors (IHE Delft Institute for Water Education), and Jan de Mooij (Rotary Netherlands). 

“By joining forces, we can scale up meaningful water solutions – empowering communities, reinforcing good governance, and ensuring that more people around the world gain access to clean and safe water”, Luzette Kroon said about the collaboration. 

(pictured: Signing of the Letter of Intent) 

About the Partners 

The Dutch Water Authorities (Unie van Waterschappen) represent the 21 regional water authorities in the Netherlands. These public organisations have centuries of expertise in managing water systems, flood protection, and water quality – experience they actively share internationally. This is largely done through the Blue Deal programme. This is a joint programme of the Dutch Water Authorities and the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and of Infrastructure and Water Management. It’s goal is to exchange knowledge with 17 international partner water authorities in 15 countries worldwide.  

IHE Delft Institute for Water Education is the world’s largest international graduate water education facility. Based in Delft, the Netherlands, it empowers professionals from around the globe through education, research, and capacity development in water management. 

Rotary Netherlands, part of the global Rotary network, brings together a diverse community of professionals and volunteers committed to humanitarian service. Through its local clubs and international reach, Rotary plays a catalytic role in driving community-led development, including clean water and sanitation projects.