UCLG represents the voice of local governments in UN Water

UCLG has initiated a new partnership with UN Water, the United Nations inter-agency coordination mechanism for all freshwater related issues.  UN Water recognizes that advancing their international agenda is a collective responsibility which calls for coordinated action involving other concerned partners and stakeholders, including organizations from public and private sectors and civil society.  

"Access to water, in sufficient quantity and quality and at an affordable rate, should be a guaranteed human right for all, by using, if necessary, social measures or appropriate solidarity mechanisms for disadvantaged populations”
Final Declaration of the Founding Congress of UCLG

Because the provision of water is usually a local government responsibility,  and because of the vital role that local authorities play in ensuring coordination with civil society - launching awareness campaigns on water management and collaborating between urban and rural areas - water has always been a key topic for the UCLG Agenda.  Universal access to water and sanitation is a key factor to achieving social inclusion, the empowerment of women and the eradication of poverty, Goal 6 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) aims to ensure access to water and sanitation for all through sustainable and inclusive management. The Third Report of the Global Observatory on Local Democracy and Decentralization (GOLD III) was dedicated to the issue of basic services like water.

Climate change, rapid urban growth, diminishing water resources and pollution have created challenges for local authorities in adapting and creating resilient societies, and there is a need for this to be highlighted at the global level. UCLG has a long history of mobilizing their network to defend the interests of local and regional governments.

The development of water resources for economic growth, social equity and environmental sustainability will be bound to the sustainable development of cities.”  
Water and Sustainable Development Information Briefing

UCLG will bring a local perspective to UN Water, as the only local government partner it will be crucial to bring a strong voice to the discussions towards action, providing outreach on the important role that local authorities play in dealing with issues related to water.

For more information about UCLG´s activities on water and santitation click here.

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