Background

Why do we need to take action on water?

Access to water is a human right. Yet, 2.2 billion live without safely managed drinking water services, with devastating impacts for their lives and wider society.

A well managed water cycle underpins progress across the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly in relation to hunger, gender equity, health, education, livelihoods, sustainability and ecosystems.

Water is also at the heart of adaptation to climate change, serving as the crucial link between the climate system, human society and the environment.

Without proper water governance, there is likely to be increased competition for water between sectors and an escalation of water crises of various kinds, triggering emergencies in a range of water-dependent sectors.

What is World Water Day?

World Water Day celebrates water and inspires action to tackle the global water crisis. A core focus of World Water Day is to support the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6: water and sanitation for all by 2030.

World Water Day is an annual United Nations Observance – held on 22 March – focusing on the importance of freshwater, coordinated by UN-Water and led by one or more UN-Water Members and Partners with a related mandate.

What happens on World Water Day?

In the lead-up to 22 March, people and organizations participate in the global public campaign, hosting World Water Day events and promoting the theme through communications, advocacy and social media.

On the day itself, the UN World Water Development Report is released, focusing on the same topic as the campaign and recommending policy direction to decision makers.

The campaign reaches a global online audience of billions and engages thousands of people on the ground in conversation and debate, raising awareness and informing decision-making across the world.