The Negotiation Workshop for Water and Energy Professionals, jointly organized by the Turkish Water Institute (SUEN) and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), was held in Istanbul at SUEN from 21–23 October 2025.
The workshop brought together women water and energy professionals from Central Asian countries, aiming to strengthen participants’ negotiation skills as well as foster a culture of dialogue and cooperation.
In his opening remarks, Prof. Dr. Lütfi Akca, President of SUEN, emphasized the importance of water diplomacy and women’s participation in water diplomacy processes for sustainable development and peace. Representatives from the Consulates General of Italy, Germany, and Switzerland in Istanbul also attended the opening session.
Throughout the programme, participants received training on conflict and cooperation dynamics, negotiation tools, and strategies. A presentation titled “Current Approaches in Water and Energy Diplomacy: Türkiye’s Experiences” was delivered by Burcu Çallı and Dr. Tuğba Evrim Maden from SUEN.
Featuring a hands-on basin simulation and group exercises, the workshop provided participants with the opportunity to experience real-life negotiation settings.
On the final day, a field visit focusing on Istanbul’s water heritage was organized with the support of Istanbul Water and Sewerage Administration (ISKI), where participants learned about the city’s historical and contemporary water management practices.
