HRC63 - EU Statement - Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the human rights to safe drinking water and sanitation

UNITED NATIONS HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL

63^rd session

Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the human rights to safe drinking water and sanitation

14 September 2026

EU statement

Mr President,

The EU thanks the Special Rapporteur for his report. The right to safe drinking water and sanitation is a prerequisite for the enjoyment of human dignity, and of other human rights.

The Special Rapporteur’s report highlights the need for the greater promotion of integrated water resource management. 

Yet, for millions around the world, access to safe drinking water and sanitation remains out of reach. This has profound consequences for public health, education, gender equality, and development, disproportionately affecting those in vulnerable and marginalized situations. 

TSDG 6 has demonstrated the value of a global goal for water and sanitation. Before the end of the 2030 agenda, ambition needs to be turned into results at scale. 

The EU is taking concrete steps to advance the right to sanitation through its international and humanitarian cooperation. In the period 2021-24, 1.8 million people have gained access to sanitation facilities and improved drinking water sources through EU funded programs. 

We call for a strong human rights perspective at the upcoming UN Water Conferences. We call on them to reaffirm that access to safe water and sanitation is not just a matter of development or infrastructure, but a matter of human dignity, equality, and rights, and systems that can sustain services for all. 

Special Rapporteur,

Since this is your last report, the EU wants to express its gratitude for your valuable work.

What further measures can be promoted to address the distinct sanitation needs and disproportionate impact of inadequate sanitation on women and girls?

Thank you.