WHO Raises Alarm on Global Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Access: Billions Still Deprived of Basic Rights
WHO Raises Alarm Over Global Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Access
In a stark reminder of ongoing global inequalities, the World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a new report highlighting the alarming lack of access to water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) for billions of people worldwide. Despite some progress in recent years, the report reveals that these essential services remain out of reach for many, particularly affecting women and girls.
The findings are sobering: approximately 2.1 billion people lack safely managed drinking water, while 1.7 billion do not have basic hygiene services at home. Furthermore, 3.4 billion individuals are without safely managed sanitation facilities. The report underscores that 106 million people rely on untreated surface water, exposing them to significant health risks.
Rural communities are disproportionately affected, with access to WASH services lagging far behind urban areas. Although urban centers have seen improvements, coverage for hygiene and drinking water has stagnated, leaving many still vulnerable.
Dr. Ruediger Krech of the WHO emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “Water, sanitation, and hygiene are not privileges; they are basic human rights.” The burden of collecting water often falls on women and girls, limiting their opportunities for education and social participation. This responsibility not only consumes valuable time but also exacerbates inequalities, particularly regarding menstrual health, which can hinder school attendance and daily activities.
The report, titled Progress on Household Drinking Water and Sanitation 2000–2024: Special Focus on Inequalities, was launched during World Water Week 2025 and highlights the need for accelerated action, especially for marginalized communities. UNICEF also echoed these concerns, noting that despite advancements over the last decade, billions remain at risk of disease and social exclusion due to inadequate access to essential services.
As the world grapples with these challenges, the WHO calls for a concerted effort to ensure that every individual, regardless of their circumstances, can enjoy the fundamental human rights of water, sanitation, and hygiene. The time for action is now, as the health and dignity of millions hang in the balance.
