Solving global water problems is central to eradicating poverty and achieving sustainable development. The UNSG's Advisory Board on Water and Sanitation (UNSGAB) is an independent body established in March 2004 by United Nations Secretary-General, Mr. Kofi Annan, to give him advice as well as to galvanize action on water and sanitation issues.

Chaired by His Royal Highness the Prince of the Netherlands, the Board is composed of a wide range of dignitaries, technical experts, and individuals with proven experience in providing inspiration, moving the machinery of government, as well as working with the media, the private sector and civil society.

UNSGAB Secretariat is hosted by the Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA), United Nations.

The Ministerial Declaration in the Black Sea Region, 27 May 2009 The Ministerial Declaration on Water Supply and Sanitation in Small Rural Settlements in the Black Sea Region contains a set of recommendations for governments to spur actions in financing, innovative solutions, education, transboudary and regional cooperation for improved sanitation coverage and sustainable water supply. Read more...

Chair's Action; Opening Speech on the occasion of the 12th UNSGAB meeting , 27 May 2009 Our Board is truly honored to meet here in Sofia - one of the oldest cities in Europe with its rich history dating back more than 5000 years. I would like to sincerely thank the Government of the Republic of Bulgaria for hosting our sessions with so much hospitality and efficiency. Read more...

Chair's actions- CSD-17 Meeting , May 14 - 15 UNSGAB chair participated the 17th session of the the United Nations Commission on Sustainable Development (CSD) in New York on 14 - 15th May, 2009 and made speeches at the High Level Segment.

Fifth World Water Fourm, Istanbul Turkey, March 16 - 22   UNSGAB Chair's speech for the High Level Panel on Finance UNSGAB Chair's speech for the Africa Regional Day. UNSGAB Honorary President's speech for the Opening Ceremony UNSGAB's new brochure outlinning achievements and objectives for 2009-2010 will be circulated during the forum and can be downloaded here. New UNSGAB brochure DOWNLOAD (, 538KB) Report on "High-Level Expert Panel on Water and Disaster/ UNSGAB" is available! DOWNLOAD (, 21.1MB)