2025 Year in Review

Global Water Security Center

Providing decision makers with the most reliable, ground-breaking research, applied scientific techniques, and best practices so that the hydrologic cycle and its potential impacts can be put in a context for appropriate action and response by the United States

This article was written by Communications Specialist, Ally-Anna Outlaw.

As 2025 comes to a close, the Global Water Security Center (GWSC) wants to reflect on what we accomplished.

In total, GWSC analysts published over 30 products in 2025, with several gaining attention across policy and national security communities.

Five Products of Note for 2025

Tehran: Not Day Zero, But Water Demand Exceeds Supply
India/Pakistan: India Would Need to Build Multi-Billion Dollar Dams to Make Good on Water Threats
Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD): Reservoir Filling Shows Little Impact on Egypt’s Nile Water Supply
Argentina: Major Lithium, Copper, and Uranium Potential, but Water Stress Poses a Serious Constraint
Mexico: Dry Forecast Could Increase Violence That Drives Displacement from Irrigated Agricultural Land

Our cartography team produced more than 100 original maps this year, supporting both analysis and external engagement.

GWSC cartographers also participated in the global 30-Day Map Challenge. One of Emma Dyson’s maps that was highlighted during the challenge earned high praise from senior State Department leaders, highlighting GWSC’s continued growth for high-quality geospatial analysis, you can check that out here.

Staff members continued their efforts in the broader policy and research community. Employees attended more than 16 conferences throughout the year, strengthening partnerships and expanding the reach of GWSC’s work.

A few of the conferences are highlighted below.

Dr. Caily Schwartz gave a talk at International Security Studies Conference in Washington, DC in October.
Dr. Erin Menzies Pluer and Mike Gremillion attended the Critical Resource Summit in Bozeman, Montana in April.
Nicholas Roberge attended the Esri User Conference in San Diego, California in July.
Mike Gremillion attended the Ditchley Foundation at Ditchley Park in Charlbury, Oxfordshire in October.
Penelope Mitchell attended the American Association of Geographers Annual Meeting in Detroit, Michigan in March.

This fall also marked an important milestone as GWSC hosted its first on-campus event at The University of Alabama with more than 50+ attendees. GWSC Food for Thought brought together students, faculty, and practitioners to listen to GWSC Director Mike Gremillion talk about his leadership journey and how he ended up at GWSC.

The progress made in 2025 reflects the dedication of GWSC’s team and partners. As we go into 2026, GWSC is well positioned to continue its growth.