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The United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health (UNU-INWEH) Media Academy, in partnership with HEC Montréal and Pale Bleu Dot Foundation, Japan, proudly launches the Global Media Awards (GMA) 2026 on: “Water Bankruptcy – Every Drop Counts”.

As the world faces growing water scarcity, climate change, pollution, and environmental degradation, the role of media has never been more important. This global initiative calls on broadcasters, journalists, filmmakers, digital creators, students, and citizens to use the power of storytelling to raise awareness, inspire action, and place water security at the centre of public dialogue.

The Awards invite participants to transform the concept of water bankruptcy into compelling and impactful media stories capable of influencing hearts, minds, policies, and communities.

Each participant may submit up to two entries, one in each category:

1.    Television

2.    Digital Media

Eligible submissions include documentaries, news stories, social media videos, interviews, animations, AI-generated content, and other innovative storytelling formats focused on the theme: “Water Bankruptcy – Every Drop Counts”.

Stories should highlight the causes and consequences of water bankruptcy while presenting practical solutions toward a more sustainable future.

This initiative aims to build a global movement of media professionals committed to solutions-oriented journalism, human-centred storytelling, and meaningful public engagement around one of the defining challenges of our time.

Entries (MP3, MP4, WAV) must be submitted by WeTransfer or similar file transfer services to awards.inweh@unu.eduby September 15, 2026. No registration fee required.

Recognition and Awards- All participants receive an official Certificate of Participation in recognition of participation and advocacy on water security.

Three winners in each category will receive cash prizes and international recognition for their impactful media productions.

The deadline for submission of entries is 15 September 2026.

We warmly invite you to join this important global movement and help amplify the message: “Every Drop Counts”.

For more details, visit: https://unu.edu/inweh/event/launch-2026-global-media-awards-water-bankruptcy-every-drop-counts

We welcome you all to join.

HEC Montreal

Pale Bleu Dot Foundation