“Water for peace” is the theme of this year’s World Water Day. Guterres stated that “action for water is action for peace, and today it is needed more than ever. Let’s commit to work together, to make water a force for cooperation, harmony and stability, and so help to create a world of peace and prosperity for all. ” 

Guterres also noted that “cooperating to safeguard water can power and sustain peace. Water stewardship can strengthen multilateralism and ties between communities, and build resilience to climate disasters. It can also drive progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals – which are the foundation of peaceful societies – including by improving health, reducing poverty and inequality, and boosting food and water security.” 

One of the UN 2030 Agenda for  Sustainable Development Goals is to “ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.” The UN statistics showed that in the past 50 years, water-related disasters account for 70% of all deaths related to natural disasters. Currently 2.2 billion people still live without safely managed drinking water. 

UN calls for cooperation in water problems, which will have ripple effects to promote harmony and prosperity, and enhance abilities to address challenges. 

The 47th Session of UN General Assembly designated the first World Water Day in Jan. 18, 1993, focusing on the importance of fresh water.  UN-Water is the convener of each year’s activities. 

Source: People's daily