This paper sets out to explore some of the practical aspects of the implementation of Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM). It covers the following aspects: 1) the relevance of IWRM for a number of key development issues, 2) the key characteristics of the concept, 3) the global status of IWRM, 4) practical implementation - the challenges, 5) practical implementation - case studies showing successful applications to problematic management scenarios, and 6) how IWRM programmes are being linked with the Millennium Development Goals and adaptation to climate change by the setting of achievement milestones.