International Rivers Organization works to save the world's rivers and promote community action

Katy Yan from the organization International Rivers recently joined the 11th Hour Action network and wrote to us to share more about the organization's efforts around the world:

International Rivers' mission is to protect rivers and defend the rights of communities that depend on them. To achieve this mission, we collaborate with a global network of local communities, social movements, non-governmental organizations and other partners. Through research, education and advocacy, International Rivers works to halt destructive river infrastructure projects, address the legacies of existing projects, improve development policies and practices, and promote water and energy solutions for a just and sustainable world.

Examples of International Rivers' campaigns include:

•  Ethiopia - International Rivers is working to keep international donors from investing in the worst projects on the drawing boards, and sharing knowledge about better alternatives and the legacy of Ethiopia's past dams with local and international civil society.

•  Amazon River - International Rivers is asking the public to make their voices heard and protect the Amazon from two proposed dams on the Madeira River that would threaten fisheries, the river's unique biodiversity, and livelihoods of thousands of indigenous peoples. 

• Southeast Asia - International Rivers is working with partners in the region and internationally to keep the Lower Mekong River's mainstream  flowing freely.