THE report of the World Health Organization (WHO) and the children’s agency (Unicef) Emitted as World Water Week begins, highlights persistent gaps in access, with vulnerable communities confronted with the greatest disparities.
Some 2.1 billion people still do not have access to drinking water managed safely, while 106 million worldwide are forced to rely on untreated surface sources.
“” Water, sanitation and hygiene are not privileges, they are fundamental human rights“Said Ruediger Krech, director of the environment, climate change and health service.
Clear disparities
The report reveals that the inhabitants of the least developed countries are more than twice as likely than the inhabitants of other countries to lack basic drinking water and sanitation services, and more than three times more likely to pass without basic hygiene.
“These inequalities are particularly striking for girls who often carry the burden of water collection and face additional barriers during menstruation,” said Cecilia Scharp, head of water, sanitation and unicef hygiene services.
The data from 70 countries reveal that if most women and adolescent girls have menstrual materials and a private place to change, many still lack enough supplies to manage their needs in complete safety and with dignity.
‘We have to act faster’
Some 1.7 billion people still lack basic hygiene services at home, including 611 million without any installation.
“We must accelerate action, especially for the most marginalized communities, if we want to keep our promise to reach the Sustainable development objectivesSaid Mr. Krech.
“At the current rhythm, the promise of safe water and sanitation for each child slides more scope – reminding us that we must act faster and daring to reach those who need it most,” said Ms. Scharp.
In the municipality of Manaure in Guajira, Colombia, a woman washes her hands during an installation of hand washing point known as Tippy Taps.
Originally published at Almouwatin.com
