In June 2000, in recognition of the importance of transboundary aquifer systems as a key source of freshwater in particular regions of the world, notably those located in arid and semi-arid zones, the 14th Session of the Intergovernmental Council of UNESCO’s International Hydrological Programme (IHP) adopted a Resolution launching an initiative, entitled “International Shared Aquifer Resources Management (ISARM)”. The aim of this initiaive was to
promote studies of transboundary aquifers and enhance cooperation amongst regional and international institutions. The first phase of the ISARM programme was dedicated to compiling a global inventory of transboundary aquifers.