Everyone should have access to water to foster global stability

Today, March 22, we observe World Water Day. And this year’s theme is Water for Peace. This is apt for the occasion considering that water, which is the lifeblood of our planet, transcends boundaries and connects us all. Its scarcity or abundance can shape the destiny of nations, influence geopolitical dynamics, and impact human well-being.

In fact, in the 2023 Water Conference of the United Nations, Secretary-general António Guterres underscored in his remarks the current water problem the world faces.

“Water is a human right and a common development denominator to shape a better future. But water is in deep trouble. We are draining humanity’s lifeblood through vampiric overconsumption and unsustainable use and evaporating it through global heating,” the top UN official said.

Indeed, access to clean water is a fundamental human right. Depriving others of this resource can lead to unrest, migration, and instability.

According to the UN, “more than three billion people worldwide depend on water that crosses national borders. Yet, out of 153 countries that share rivers, lakes, and aquifers with their neighbors, only 24 countries report having cooperation agreements for all their shared water.” But the lack of cooperation agreements among 129 countries is a cause for concern as these water sources that traverse national borders may become flashpoints.

Collaborative efforts in managing these transboundary water bodies is necessary to build trust and promote peace.

Water scarcity exacerbates tensions between neighboring countries, leading to disputes over shared water sources. Conversely, effective water management fosters cooperation, preventing conflicts and reducing the risk of social unrest.

This is why it is vital to have equitable access to water and for everyone to practice sustainable and responsible use of this precious lifeblood. This is vital to prevent conflicts and foster stability.

In the Philippines, while we have abundant rainfall—except during this El Niño phenomenon—we still face water challenges. We continue to experience supply shortages during summer.

The water shortage the country experiences underscores the urgency of sustainable water management and the need to diversify water sources. Over reliance on groundwater and surface water, like rivers and lakes, has become unsustainable with the rising population.

While new dams have been built and some are on the pipeline, exploring desalination, rainwater harvesting, and efficient wastewater treatment may be good options in a bid to diversify the country’s water sources.

In fact, we even have a law on rainwater harvesting that was passed 35 years ago.

Republic Act 6716, the Rainwater Collector and Springs Development Act of 1989, requires the construction of rainwater collectors in every barangay to prevent flooding and ensure continuous provision of clean water during dry seasons. The law also mandates the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to construct water wells, rainwater collectors, development of springs and rehabilitation of existing water wells in all barangays in the country.

This must be fully implemented nationwide to address water shortage, mitigate the effects of climate change, and prevent conflicts.

As we celebrate World Water Day, let us recognize that water is a vital commodity and should be accessible to everyone and conserving it is a shared responsibility. By safeguarding this vital resource, we pave the way for a more peaceful and sustainable world.