September 17th, 2024
PARIS - United Nations World Water Development Report 2024, released by UNESCO on behalf of UN-Water, paints a concerning picture of how water scarcity is becoming a catalyst for conflict across the globe. With 2.2 billion people lacking access to safely managed drinking water and 3.5 billion without proper sanitation, the urgency for concerted international action has never been more pronounced.
The big picture: Water scarcity as a catalyst for conflict
Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO, underscored the critical nature of the challenge, stating, “As water stress increases, so do the risks of local or regional conflict.” She emphasised the necessity of swift action to protect water resources and bolster global cooperation in the face of these escalating tensions.
Details: A global crisis in numbers
The report reveals stark statistics that highlight the severity of the crisis. Between 2002 and 2021, droughts affected over 1.4 billion people, indicating a widespread issue that does not discriminate by geography. With climate change expected to amplify the frequency and severity of such droughts, the report calls for immediate and cohesive global action to avert further social instability.
Zoom in: The disproportionate impact on women and girls
One of the more harrowing findings of the report is the disproportionate burden placed on women and girls, particularly in rural areas where they are often the primary collectors of water. This not only places them at greater risk of violence but also significantly hampers their access to education and economic opportunities.
What's happening: The need for transboundary agreements
The scarcity of formal transboundary water agreements stands as a significant barrier to resolving potential conflicts. Despite 40% of the world’s population living in areas that rely on transboundary river and lake basins, only a fifth of these regions have established agreements for equitable water management. This gap in cooperation, the report argues, is a ticking time bomb for conflict.
Between the lines: Examples of success
However, the report also points to examples of successful cooperation that could serve as models for other regions. The Framework Agreement on the Sava River Basin and the revitalized efforts by the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC) highlight how structured dialogue and legal frameworks can not only mitigate disputes but also pave the way for sustainable water management and peace.
The bottom line: "A powerful lever for maintaining peace"
In concluding, the report asserts that international cooperation on transboundary water management is not just beneficial but essential for peace. By fostering regular dialogue and establishing comprehensive legal frameworks, the global community can move towards resolving water-related disputes and preventing them from escalating into full-blown conflicts.
As the world grapples with the escalating challenges of water scarcity and its potential to fuel conflicts, the United Nations' call for increased cooperation and the establishment of transboundary agreements has never been more urgent. The examples of the Sava River Basin and the Lake Chad Basin Commission serve as beacons of hope, demonstrating the potential of collaborative efforts to ensure peace and prosperity in the face of growing water stress.