Introduction
"ICHARM stands for the International Centre for Water Hazard and Risk Management under the auspices of UNESCO. The phrase ""under the auspices of UNESCO"" tells you that ICHARM works closely with UNESCO. Research is not the only job that ICHARM does. Training and information networking are also essential parts of it. ICHARM arranges training programs for government workers and experts of overseas countries to learn practical knowledge and technologies useful to reduce water-related risks. ICHARM sees information networking as essential for its work, too. The researchers attend many conferences, both at home and overseas, to share research outcomes and discuss issues with other experts, as well as to collect new information that can be used to improve ICHARM's activities. ICHARM will continue, as it has, its efforts in the three principal areas of activity - research, training and information networking -, strongly hoping that they will contribute to the reduction of water-related disaster damage around the world. "
