International Rivers | International River Conservation

International Rivers seeks 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 damaging nature or increasing poverty, and people have the right to participate in decisions that affect their lives.

International Rivers is a global organization headquartered in Oakland, California, with regional offices in Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

We work with communities that rely on rivers and are affected by dams to ensure their voices are heard and their rights are respected.

We help establish a well funded and active network of civil society organizations to showcase our collective strength and create the changes we seek.

We conduct independent research and investigation to generate reliable data and evidence, providing information for policies and activities.

We remain independent and fearless in exposing and resisting destructive projects.

We collaborate with all relevant stakeholders to develop a vision for protecting rivers and communities that rely on them.

History and Success

In 1985, a small group of volunteers formed the International Rivers Network. Their vision is simple but ambitious: to establish a global network to protect rivers and promote fair and sustainable energy development.

For over 35 years, we have successfully supported River Defenders to become leaders in global movements. Our work includes facilitating the establishment of the World Commission on Dams, which is the gold standard for water and energy planning, as well as persuading China Hydroelectric Corporation, the world's largest dam builder, to adopt pioneering social and environmental policies.

In recognition of these achievements, International Rivers was awarded the 2013 MacArthur Innovation and Effective Institutions Award for "Applied Science, Rigorous Policy Analysis, and Strategic Advocacy".

Mission, Vision, and Strategy

Free flowing rivers operate like arteries, providing important freshwater resources for the world's ecosystems, with higher biodiversity per square mile than almost any other ecosystem. Rivers are crucial for the food security, livelihoods, and cultural traditions of millions of people, especially indigenous and traditional peoples around the world. However, freshwater ecosystems are being fragmented, transferred, and polluted.

Only one-third of the world's rivers remain free flowing, and less than 10% of the world's watersheds are protected.