Progress on drinking water and sanitation : 2012 update

Since 1990, more than 2 billion people have gained access to improved drinking water sources. This achievement is a testament to the commitment of government leaders, public and private sector entities, communities and individuals who saw the target not as a dream, but as a vital step towards improving health and well-being. Of course, much work remains to be done. There are still 780 million people without access to an improved drinking water source. And even though 1.8 billion people have gained access to improved sanitation since 1990, the world remains off track for the sanitation target. It is essential to accelerate progress in the remaining time before the MDG deadline, and I commend those who are participating in the sustainable sanitation : five year drive to 2015. This report outlines the challenges that remain. Some regions, particularly sub-Saharan Africa, are lagging behind. Many rural dwellers and the poor often miss out on improvements to drinking water and sanitation. And the burden of poor water supply falls most heavily on girls and women. Reducing these disparities must be a priority. The recognition by the UN General Assembly, in 2010, of water and sanitation as a human right provides additional political impetus towards the ultimate goal of providing everyone with access to these vital services. Many countries and agencies have joined hands in the Sanitation and Water for All partnership. Such collective efforts offer real promise and I urge all partners to contribute. [authors abstract]