Free-flowing rivers work like arteries, providing the world’s ecosystems with critical freshwater resources that sustain a higher biodiversity per square mile than almost any other ecosystem. Rivers are crucial to the food security, livelihoods, and cultural traditions of millions, especially indigenous and traditional peoples around the world. Yet freshwater ecosystems are being fragmented, diverted and polluted.
Only one-third of the world’s rivers remain free-flowing, and less than 10% of the world’s river basins are protected.
Our Mission
International Rivers protects rivers and defends the rights of communities that depend on them.
Our Vision
We seek a world where healthy rivers and the rights of local river communities are valued and protected. We envision a world where water and energy needs are met without degrading nature or increasing poverty, and where people have the right to participate in decisions that affect their lives.
