International Rivers' mission is to protect rivers and defend the rights of communities that depend on them. Together with our global partners, we seek a world where healthy rivers and the rights of local communities are valued and protected. We envision a world where water and energy needs are met without degrading nature or increasing poverty, and where people have the right to participate in decisions that affect their lives. As the only international organization focusing on protecting rivers and human rights, International Rivers plays a critical and unique role in shifting the water and energy paradigm away from destructive dams and towards more sustainable options. Through research, education and advocacy we generate international awareness of the environmental, economic and social consequences of large dams, and we empower our global colleagues to participate in this effort. We provide policy analysis critiquing hydro-development and have influenced the policies of companies, governments, and financial institutions active in the dam sector.