Global water governance pioneer Professor Kaveh Madani receives the 2026 Stockholm Water Prize

Professor Kaveh Madani, Director of the United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health (UNU-INWEH), has been named the 2026 Stockholm Water Prize laureate, the world’s most prestigious award for outstanding achievements in water.

The Stockholm Water Foundation and the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences recognize Professor Kaveh Madani, for his groundbreaking research and global leadership that have transformed how governments manage water crises. His work has shifted the focus of global water debates from infrastructure to governance and demonstrated how weak governance structures often lie at the heart of severe water crises. He has also advanced global understanding of transboundary water issues, developing science-based approaches to conflict resolution and sustainable management of shared river basins worldwide.

Prize Citation from the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences Prize Committee:
“…based on his unique combination of groundbreaking research on water resources management with policy, diplomacy and global outreach, often under personal risk and political complexity.”

As Director of UNU-INWEH, Professor Madani leads the United Nations’ primary think tank on water, guiding global research and policy on water security, climate adaptation and the water-energy-food nexus. He previously served as Deputy Head of Iran’s Department of Environment and held academic positions at several leading universities, including Imperial College London, Yale University, and the City College of New York.

Anette Scheibe Lorentzi, Chair of Stockholm Water Foundation, says: “Professor Madani has significantly advanced our understanding of complex water challenges. At a time of growing climate pressures, this knowledge is more important than ever. I congratulate Professor Madani on receiving the 2026 Stockholm Water Prize.”

The Stockholm Water Prize will be formally presented to Professor Madani by H.M. King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden during the royal ceremony and banquet as part of World Water Week in Stockholm in August 2026. The award includes a cash prize of 1 million SEK and a distinctive crystal sculpture.

About the Stockholm Water Prize
Established in 1991, the Stockholm Water Prize is awarded annually by the Stockholm Water Foundation in cooperation with the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences. It honours individuals and organisations whose work contributes significantly to the sustainable use and protection of the world’s water resources. Past laureates include leading scientists, policymakers, and innovators whose contributions have had global impact.