Megaconferences: Serious or Circus? An Unscientific Personal View

Abstract

This analysis is different from the rest as presented in this important book on megaconferences. It is based on a personal impression, analysis and assessment and not based on any statistical analysis or any proper research methodology. It is a personal view of the industry called megaconference. However, having attended several such conferences as a member of government delegation, United Nations agency and also as a representative of partnership organization, I have possibly developed a rounded but also slightly cynical view of the whole process. However, I have attempted to present my views without any bias and prejudice. It captures the experience of a water professional who has attended a number of mega, macro and micro conferences in water and also non-water areas. It is intended to be of some help to researchers or policy-makers to understand some points that they may consider further. But for the continuous encouragement from Asit Biswas this chapter would not have been written. He has been the main mover behind this whole exercise which is very topical and timely, especially before the World Water Forum in March 2006.