Rivers are more than waterways, they are lifelines that connect ecosystems, communities, cultures, and economies. Migratory fish such as salmon, sturgeon, eels, and catfish rely on healthy, free-flowing rivers to complete their journeys for feeding, breeding, and spawning, supporting biodiversity, food security, and livelihoods worldwide. 🌊🌿

This year's theme, "We Are River People!", highlights the deep connection between human well-being and healthy freshwater ecosystems. Yet migratory fish face growing threats from river fragmentation, pollution, habitat degradation, and climate change, with more than one-third of migratory freshwater fish species currently in decline.

Healthy rivers provide clean water, support biodiversity, strengthen climate resilience, and sustain communities. Protecting migratory fish means protecting the ecosystems that both nature and people depend upon.

On World Fish Migration Day, let us work together to restore river connectivity, promote sustainable water management, and protect our freshwater resources for future generations. Every action counts toward healthier rivers and a more sustainable future. 🌎✨

This responsibility is strongly aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

🔹 SDG 6 – Clean Water and Sanitation

Protecting freshwater ecosystems and maintaining healthy river systems contribute to sustainable water resources for people and nature.

🔹 SDG 13 – Climate Action

Restoring rivers and wetlands strengthens ecosystem resilience and supports climate adaptation and mitigation efforts.

🔹 SDG 14 – Life Below Water

Many migratory fish species depend on connected aquatic environments, making river conservation essential for aquatic biodiversity.

🔹 SDG 15 – Life on Land

Healthy rivers support wetlands, forests, wildlife habitats, and broader terrestrial ecosystems, contributing to biodiversity conservation.

🔹 SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals

Global collaboration among governments, scientists, communities, NGOs, and environmental organizations is essential to protect migratory fish and restore freshwater ecosystems.

Protecting migratory fish is about more than conserving species, it is about preserving biodiversity, maintaining healthy freshwater ecosystems, and supporting sustainable communities. By protecting our rivers today, we help build a more resilient and sustainable future for generations to come. 🌊🌍