UNESCO Calls for Women's Inclusion in Water Management on World Water Day

UNESCO marked World Water Day by calling for greater inclusion of women in water management and leadership positions. The agency highlighted that women and girls play a key role in securing water for families worldwide but remain underrepresented in decision-making processes.

The organization stressed the need for equal participation of women to achieve inclusive and sustainable water solutions. It noted that inequalities continue to shape access to water resources globally, with millions facing shortages, including in Afghanistan.

According to UNICEF, nearly one-third of Afghanistan's population lacks access to safe drinking water. Women bear the burden of daily water-related tasks, particularly in rural areas where limited infrastructure forces them to handle water collection, cooking, washing and childcare, increasing physical and emotional strain.

UNESCO's statement underscores the urgent need to address both water scarcity and gender inequality. Improving women's roles in water management could lead to more effective and equitable solutions worldwide.

The United Nations designated March 22 as World Water Day to raise awareness about the importance of water and promote sustainable management of water resources globally.