As we mark the end of Prof. Berit Arheimer’s distinguished presidency, we warmly thank her for her leadership and dedication to the International Association of Hydrological Sciences (IAHS) since 2021.

Berit, a Professor in Hydrological Research at the Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute (SMHI), brought to IAHS a clear and inspiring vision:

1. To address major global challenges,
2. To advance the hydrological sciences, and
3. To connect people.

Under her leadership, IAHS has made meaningful strides across all three pillars:

In global engagement, Berit represented IAHS at the historic UN Water Conference in New York in 2023. She initiated the Science for Solutions Decade – HELPING – and served as its first Chair. This dynamic initiative now unites over 1200 scientists across more than 30 Working Groups worldwide, fostering collaborative solutions to today’s hydrological challenges.

In scientific outreach, Berit championed the creation of the IAHS Digital Water Globe, a new platform to showcase innovation and research across the community. She also oversaw the development and publication of the first HELPING community paper in the Hydrological Sciences Journal, exemplifying collaborative knowledge sharing. In advancing hydrological sciences, Berit laid the foundations for the IAHS Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI), particularly in terms of the Falkenmark Award (one of the few hydrological awards named after a female scientist). 

In community building, Berit modernised the internal IAHS management processes and communication strategies, while strengthening our organisation’s partnerships with key international bodies such as EGU, WMO, UNESCO IHP, UN Water and others. Berit’s presidency has left an enduring legacy for the IAHS community and a strong foundation for the years ahead.

On behalf of the IAHS Officers, International Commissions, Working Groups, Committees and all our members around the world—thank you, Berit, for your vision, leadership, and tireless efforts. You leave with our deepest gratitude and warmest wishes for the future!