UN report flags gender inequality in global water access
Summary
A UN report highlights how gender inequality worsens the global water crisis, affecting women and girls who bear the burden of water collection and face risks like violence and lost opportunities.
Key Points
- Women collect water in over 70% of households lacking basic water services worldwide.
- Women and girls spend 250 million hours daily collecting water, impacting education, employment, and health.
- 2.1 billion people lack safely managed drinking water, with women and girls facing increased risks including gender-based violence.
- Women are underrepresented in water governance, especially in low- and middle-income countries, comprising less than 20% of water utility workers.
