The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) is a global authority on the status of the natural world and the measures needed to safeguard it. Since its inception, IUCN has played a pivotal role in bringing together governments, civil society organizations, scientists, and communities to work collectively on the sustainable management of natural resources. With its mission of “a just world that values and conserves nature,” IUCN focuses on biodiversity conservation, climate change, ecosystem management, and sustainable livelihoods. Through its programmes, IUCN provides practical solutions, knowledge, and policy support to address pressing global challenges. The organisation also prioritises inclusivity and equity, recognising the role of diverse voices in environmental governance. Under the BRIDGE Programme (Building River Dialogue and Governance), IUCN aims to strengthen shared water governance, particularly across transboundary river basins. This programme is designed to reduce conflict, foster cooperation, and enhance sustainable water resource management. Phase 5 of BRIDGE places a strong emphasis on promoting women’s leadership in water governance. It highlights the importance of gender inclusion to ensure long-term sustainability, resilience, and fairness in freshwater management, recognising that women’s participation and leadership are often underrepresented but critically needed.

The BRIDGE Phase 5 Women’s Leadership Grants are focused on enhancing gender mainstreaming in freshwater governance and management. These grants support rapid action projects that empower women to play more active and effective roles in decision-making related to river basins and transboundary water institutions. The initiative acknowledges that poor governance in water-scarce regions threatens ecosystems, freshwater sustainability, and political stability. By addressing the lack of women’s representation in leadership positions, these grants aim to remove barriers to their meaningful participation while showcasing their significant contributions to water management. Projects supported under this grant are expected to foster gender assessments, develop strategies and action plans, encourage direct stakeholder engagement, and build women’s capacities in leadership roles. The grants fall under BRIDGE’s first outcome area: strengthening shared water agreements and institutions. Each project must be practical, realistic, and aligned with the goal of reinforcing governance frameworks by integrating gender perspectives. Projects should be completed within nine months and are expected to commence by October 2025, following the signing of grant agreements. Ultimately, the grant seeks to promote inclusive governance and amplify the role of women in freshwater leadership.