Solidarity in Action
Stronger Utilities for Thriving Cities
27–30 October 2025 |
Bonn, Germany
World Conference Center Bonn
About the Congress

About the Congress

The Global Water Operators’ Partnerships (WOPs) Congress is organized by UN-Habitat through the Global Water Operators’ Partnerships Alliance (GWOPA).

The Congress is the foremost gathering within the UN system for water and sanitation operators. It brings together operators, local and national governments, development partners, and stakeholders to exchange knowledge, inspire action, mobilise support for WOPs, and strengthen capacities to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals – particularly universal access to water and sanitation.

Programme

Opening Ceremony

Kick off the Congress with inspiring remarks from global water leaders and policymakers setting the direction and energizing our collective action.

Plenary Sessions

Each day brings utility executives, development experts, and policymakers together for strategic, high-level discussions on the Congress’s core themes. No parallel sessions are held, allowing all participants to engage in a common forum.

Thematic Sessions

Engage in thematic and strategic sessions on climate resilience, human right to water and sanitation, innovation, WOP impacts, enabling WOPs and operators featuring case studies, good practices and interactive Q&A.

Workshops & Training

Develop practical skills in targeted workshops and training labs. On 30 October, join a full day of intensive sessions and an optional technical field visit to local water facilities.

Exhibition and Networking Space

A dedicated area to foster exchange within the Global WOPs Community of Practice, offering space for GWOPA member interaction, a photo exhibition, and a WOP Library Corner featuring partners' knowledge products.

Closing Plenary

The Closing Plenary will celebrate the outcome of the 6th Global WOP Congress and provide high-level conclusions for the Alliance going forward.

Session Application

Deadline for submission: 16 June 2025.

  1. Congress Concept Note
  2. Complete offline session proposal template
Welcome to Bonn
#6GlobalWOPs
Aerial view of Bonn, Germany
Park scenery with a historic tower in Bonn
Cherry blossom-lined street in Bonn
World Conference Center, Bonn

Participant Registration

Registration is open at UN-Habitat's Global Event Management System (GEMS) until 17 October 2025.

Thematic and Strategic Tracks

Human Rights
Human Right to Water & Sanitation

Explore how operators advance the human right to water and sanitation, reaching underserved communities with inclusive, dignified services.

Climate Action
Climate Action & Resilience

Learn how climate-smart strategies in water and sanitation services build resilience, reduce emissions, and protect communities from climate shocks.

Innovation in W&S
Innovation in Water & Sanitation

Discover how innovation and digital solutions are transforming water and sanitation services for inclusive, efficient and sustainable urban futures.

WOPs for Impact
WOPs for Impact

See how strong partnerships and sound governance in water and sanitation advance SDG 6, amplify impact, and enhance service delivery.

Enabling WOPs
Enabling WOPs & Operators

Examine how supportive frameworks, robust institutions and innovative financing empower WOPs and strengthen utility performance for lasting impact.

Why participate?

Networking & Matchmaking

Establish new partnerships – both long-term and short-term – across the GWOPA Alliance.

Learning & Knowledge Exchange

Join technical workshops, cultural field trips with the City of Bonn, and sessions on the WASH sector trends and solutions.

Advocacy & Recognition

Promote global recognition of operators as key urban actors in delivering the SDGs and champion a more supportive enabling environment for WOPs.

Join the WOP Community

Connect in person with the growing Global WOPs Community and discover diverse solutions in water and sanitation.

Who will be there?

Previous editions have brought together participants from over 80 countries, including public and private water and sanitation operators, their associations, community-based service providers, labour unions, city networks, civil society organizations, I/NGOs, financial institutions, academia, development partners and independent experts.

The event will welcome those practicing, supporting, studying or curious about using not-for-profit peer support between water and sanitation operators to improve global water and sanitation services.

Logistics

General Information

Contact

unhabitat-gwopa@un.org
gwopa.unhabitat.org/wop-congress
+49 228 815 2373

Venue

World Conference Centre Bonn
Platz der Vereinten Nationen 2, 53113 Bonn, Germany
+49 (0) 228 9267-0

Before You Arrive in Bonn

Information on Bonn

Learn more at international.bonn.de and Bonn-region.de.

Passport & Visa

Non-EU delegates require a valid passport and possibly a visa. EU citizens may enter with a national ID card.

Travel Insurance

Participants are encouraged to obtain travel insurance covering medical emergencies, accidents and loss of personal belongings. GWOPA cannot assume liability for such incidents.

Accommodation

Book via Bonn & Region portal to receive a free public transport ticket.

Currency

Germany uses the Euro (€). Some vendors may only accept cash or German Girocards.

At the Venue

Wi-Fi & Adapters

Free Wi-Fi will be available. Power: 220V, type C plug—bring an adapter.

Security

Badges must be worn at all times. No badge lending. ID may be required at entry.

Logistics illustration

Communications & Promotion

Spread the word! Download our communications package to promote the Congress.