Geneva, November 27, 2002
“Water is fundamental for life and health. The human right to water is indispensable for leading a healthy life in human dignity. It is a pre-requisite to the realization of all other human rights.”
With those words, the United Nations Committee on Economic, Cultural and Social Rights today took the unprecedented step of agreeing on a “General Comment” on water as a human right. A “General Comment” is an interpretation of the provisions of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. The 145 countries which have ratified the Covenant will now be compelled to progressively ensure that everyone has access to safe and secure drinking water and sanitation facilities – equitably and without discrimination.
