Special Envoy for Water

About the Special water Envoy

The Water Envoy is appointed by the Dutch Cabinet and reports directly to the ministers. In the role as thematic ambassador, the Water Envoy strengthens the Dutch international water ambition at home and abroad for the entire sector and, on behalf of and for, the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Infrastructure and Water Management, Economic Affairs and Climate Policy, and Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality.

Since Augustus 2023 is Meike van Ginneken the Water Envoy. Through her water and economic diplomacy, she connects a close network in the Netherlands with a strong and well maintained international network. She works closely with our Embassies, Consulates and Permanent Representations. The Water Envoy operates across the full spectrum of the water sector and builds lasting relationships with the most important partners, relevant government agencies, knowledge institutions, umbrella organisations, coordinating and representative bodies, businesses, and social organisations. Among the last are the World Bank, United Nations, EU and OECD. She also makes connections with other relevant top sectors such as energy, agriculture, and the creative industry.

• The Water Envoy participates in international water meetings, multilateral fora and IFIs, if required, representing ministers at these events.
• The Water Envoy’s core objectives are to create awareness and build coalitions, stimulate response and preparedness, work on water diplomacy, and boost innovation.