The International Life Saving Federation and the Egyptian Diving and Lifesaving Federation are delighted to announce that the World Conference on Drowning Prevention 2025 (WCDP 2025), to be held in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, from 21–23 November 2025, is officially co-sponsored by the World Health Organization (WHO). WHO’s ongoing global leadership in drowning prevention, following its pivotal reports and support for United Nations and World Health Assembly resolutions, continues to shape the future of drowning prevention and water safety.
WCDP 2025, themed “Waves of Change,” will unite leading experts, practitioners, researchers, and policymakers in drowning prevention, lifesaving, and aquatic safety from across the globe. The Egyptian Diving and Lifesaving Federation (EDLF) is honoured to bring this flagship event to Egypt and the Middle East/North Africa region for the first time, amplifying global and regional impact on drowning prevention.
Since the last global conference, the world has witnessed growing momentum through the continued celebration of World Drowning Prevention Day on 25 July, the launch of the WHO’s first Global Status Report on Drowning, the establishment of the Global Alliance for Drowning Prevention and the development of the first Global Strategy for Drowning Prevention. Every year, over 300,000 people lose their lives to drowning, with the burden highest in low- and middle-income countries, including those in Africa and around the Mediterranean.
Dr David Meddings, from WHO’s Department of Health Determinants, Promotion and Prevention, remarks: “Bringing WCDP to Egypt highlights drowning as a critical, but neglected, public health issue in this region and worldwide. The continued WHO partnership ensures the conference fosters real action towards reducing these preventable deaths, especially where the need is greatest.”
International Life Saving Federation (ILS) President Graham Ford AO commented: “WCDP 2025’s arrival in Egypt reflects the evolving leadership in drowning prevention and the importance of engaging new regions. WHO’s co-sponsorship energizes our mission to galvanize governments, civil society, and the aquatic community for lasting, life-saving change.”
Mr Sameh ElShazly, President of the Egyptian Diving and Lifesaving Federation, added:
“Hosting WCDP 2025 in Sharm El Sheikh is a tremendous milestone for Egypt and the region. We look forward to welcoming the global drowning prevention community to our shores, to share expertise and inspire practical, innovative solutions adaptable to diverse contexts. Together, we can build waves of change that will save lives across Egypt, Africa, and the world.”
Key WHO officials from Geneva and regional offices, as well as leaders and practitioners from across Africa, the Middle East, and Europe, will participate and contribute to the program. The conference will feature the latest research, policy guidance, and field innovations, alongside technical workshops and community field trips.
This event remains the International Life Saving Federation’s flagship platform, driving global collaboration for a world without drowning. Delegates are encouraged to register early for this milestone event, with special workshops and a conference dinner on November 22 at Terrazzina Beach in Sharm El Sheikh.
For more information and registration, visit the official conference website: www.wcdp2025.com