About IW:LEARN 5

Currently in its fifth phase, GEF IW:LEARN continues to serve as the knowledge and learning backbone of the GEF International Waters portfolio. Building on decades of experience and innovation, this phase expands IW:LEARN’s mandate with a sharper focus on cross-regional learning, digital transformation, and support to Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

By linking key policy processes and scaling adaptive learning, Phase 5 aims to boost project impact, strengthen cross-border cooperation, and accelerate progress toward global goals.

Funded by GEF, executed by UNESCO-IOC, and implemented in partnership with UNDP and UNEP, IW:LEARN 5 connects a global community of practice committed to the collaborative, sustainable management of transboundary water systems, including rivers, lakes, aquifers, Large Marine Ecosystems (LMEs), and coastal and oceanic environments.

IW:LEARN runs in cycles and is currently in its 5th phase, from 2022 to 2026, also known as IW:LEARN 5.

• Advance Knowledge & Capacity: Gather and share lessons, tools, and training to strengthen the implementation of GEF International Waters projects and improve transboundary water management.
• Foster Innovation & Collaboration: Promote tested solutions and new approaches while connecting stakeholders through peer-learning and regional exchanges.
• Strengthen Strategic Alignment: Support the GEF IW Strategy by linking projects with global priorities such as source-to-sea integration, the blue economy, and SIDS visibility, while encouraging cooperative and integrated ecosystem governance.