One of the objectives of a World Water Forum is to have an impact on water management decisions in the world and as such, it must incorporate water-related artistic, cultural, spiritual and educational components. To this end, the French Water Academy and the International Secretariat for Water decided to organize jointly the International “Water and Film” Events, during each World Water Forum that takes place every three years.

The first international Water and Film Event was held in Mexico City in March 2006, during the 4th World Water Forum, and proved to be a true success.

It proposed an original and ambitious programme, representing the cultural diversity of audiovisual production across the world while addressing a multitude of complex water-related issues.

It emphasized the deep and interlinked relationship between water and film, drawing attention to the fact that fictions, documentaries, awareness-raising short films and spots, are crucial in mobilising each and every one of us in our search for solutions to many of the world's water problems.

This innovative cultural event was also an opportunity for sharing experiences and for discussion, bringing together citizens, elected officials, NGOs, as well as water experts and film and media specialists. Following this promising first step, we are looking at similar opportunities in working with other international conferences in the coming years.

The second international "Water and Film" Event will take place in Istanbul during the 5th World Water Forum in March 2009.