Global water and sanitation access remains a critical challenge for 2030 Agenda

Eleven years after the approval of the United Nations' 2030 Agenda, achieving universal access to safe water and sanitation remains a critical global challenge. Despite progress, millions of people still lack basic services, making the final years leading toward 2030 a decisive phase for Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6).

Addressing these gaps requires simultaneous action in financing, infrastructure, water resource management, wastewater treatment, and ecosystem conservation, all while adapting to increasing climate pressures. The StepbyWater Alliance has called for increased investment, innovation, and international cooperation to return water to the center of global priorities.

Global sanitation challenges carry significant socio-economic and health consequences. In 2022, approximately 43% of the world's population lacked access to safely managed sanitation. Poor sanitation is linked to diarrheal diseases, stunted growth, and antimicrobial resistance. In low-income countries, unsafe sanitation is associated with 5% of deaths. Furthermore, inadequate sanitation impacts mental well-being and security, particularly for women and children, and can cost nearly 2% of a nation's GDP due to losses in trade, tourism, and water quality.