International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage

Since 1951, ICID has been organizing its flagship triennial event – the International Congress on Irrigation and Drainage. These congresses serve as a global platform to discuss and evaluate upcoming changes and evolving challenges in the water sector. In the face of climate change, global warming, rapid population growth, rising demands, and continuous technological progress, ICID Congresses aim to develop practical and forward-looking solutions.

Given the multidisciplinary nature of these challenges, the congresses address major global concerns related to water and food security, water conservation, and equitable access to resources.

Every three years, two key thematic questions are identified in response to emerging global trends. Around these topics, papers are presented, and key events such as a Special Session, Symposium, and History Seminar are held and showcased internationally. Participation is open to national committees and their members, nationals of member countries, relevant international organizations, and invited experts from non-member countries.

The technical proceedings are compiled and published as Transactions, which are recognized worldwide as valuable references for researchers, professionals, and even grassroots practitioners such as farmers.

The 25th ICID Congress took place in Visakhapatnam, India, in November 2023, on the theme “Tackling Water Scarcity in Agriculture.”

The upcoming 26th International Congress on Irrigation and Drainage will be held in Marseille, France, from 12 to 17 October 2026, under the theme:
“Water, Soil, Climate: Towards Resilient Agriculture.”
This congress will mark a key milestone in the global dialogue on the future of irrigated agriculture, providing a unique opportunity for exchange, collaboration, and innovation toward sustainable solutions.