As they wrapped up the final day of the 2023 United Nations Water Conference, global leaders painted a grim picture of a global water crisis that if not addressed with financing, infrastructure and policy changes will lead to more suffering, deaths and could even spark conflicts and mass migration patterns around the globe.
Highlighting the importance of international cooperation in achieving the Water Action Decade objectives — including the sustainable management of water resources, data-sharing and development of joint projects — speakers in the fifth and final interactive dialogue of the United Nations 2023 Water Conference called for collectively mobilizing international finance and investment in water, as well as the appointment of a special envoy.
Following are UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ closing remarks to the United Nations 2023 Water Conference, in New York today:
United Nations humanitarian partners in Somalia have reported an early start to the country’s annual rainy season, which has brought flash floods, killing 14 people, destroying property and displacing thousands. The rains also come amid several disease outbreaks, including cholera, which are now likely to increase.
Transboundary water management cooperation is a critical element in all forms of sustainable development — from conquering water scarcity and protecting biodiversity to building stronger economies and ensuring peace and security — speakers stressed today as the 2023 United Nations Water Conference held its fourth interactive dialogue.
Highlighting the nexus between water, climate change and disaster, speakers in the third interactive dialogue of the 2023 Water Conference called for renewed commitment in managing that resource and ensuring water security.
Against the backdrop of water scarcity and climate-induced disasters, ministers and other Government officials today called for change and concerted action on water while underscoring that resource’s importance for development, underlining the environmental dimension and spotlighting national efforts, as the 2023 United Nations Water Conference continued its second day of debates.
Ensuring sustainable economic and urban development in times of worldwide and increasing water stress — as a result of climate change, pollution and unsustainable water management — is one of the most pressing issues facing the world, speakers underscored as the 2023 Water Conference held its second interactive dialogue.
Investing inclusively in water, sanitation and hygiene is crucial for health, prosperity and equity, speakers from Governments and civil society underscored as the 2023 Water Conference kicked off a series of five interactive dialogues.
Following are UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ remarks to the United Nations Water Conference, in New York today:
