Access to safe water and proper sanitation is a fundamental human right, yet millions of children worldwide face life-threatening consequences due to inadequate water infrastructure. Diarrhoeal diseases, driven by unsafe drinking water and poor hygiene practices, are a leading cause of child mortality. Addressing this crisis aligns closely with the global goals of sustainable development, particularly those focused on clean water and sanitation, good health and well-being, and reducing inequalities.
This article explores the causes behind these preventable deaths, analyses their broader implications, and highlights the organisations and collaborative efforts making a difference.
The urgent need for clean water and sanitation
Each year, over 443,832 children under five die from diarrhoeal diseases, making it the third leading cause of death in this age group, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). Regions with the poorest water sanitation infrastructure bear the heaviest burden. In Latin America, around 10,000 children die annually from acute diarrhoea, while in Africa, over 700 children die daily from preventable conditions caused by inadequate water and sanitation.
During emergencies such as conflicts or natural disasters, the situation worsens. Oxfam Intermón reports that 40 children die every hour worldwide due to diarrhoea linked to poor sanitation and lack of clean water—accounting for 40% of child deaths in such scenarios.
The impact of poor water sanitation extends beyond immediate health risks. Children who survive diarrhoea often face malnutrition, stunting, and impaired cognitive development. The issue also exacerbates gender inequality, as women and girls disproportionately bear the burden of water collection, which limits educational and economic opportunities.
Economically, the costs are staggering. UNICEF estimates that global annual losses due to inadequate water, sanitation, and hygiene reach $260 billion, highlighting the urgent need for investment in sustainable solutions that ensure economic equality and social justice.
Organisations making a difference
Numerous organisations are taking bold steps to address this crisis, combining innovation, education, and infrastructure development:
UNICEF’s WASH Programme: Aims to provide water, sanitation, and hygiene services in vulnerable regions. Learn more.
WaterAid: Works in over 28 countries to deliver clean water and sanitation solutions. Learn more.
Charity: Water: Funds community-led projects to improve water access and reduce disease. Learn more.
Action Against Hunger: Addresses water scarcity and sanitation challenges to combat malnutrition. Learn more.
The Water Project: Provides sustainable water solutions in sub-Saharan Africa. Learn more.
Safe Water Network: Develops decentralised water systems for underserved communities. Learn more.
Splash: Focuses on clean water and sanitation in urban schools across Asia and Africa. Learn more.
Helvetas: Promotes sustainable water management in developing regions. Learn more.
Planet Water Foundation: Installs filtration systems in water-stressed areas. Learn more.
These organisations, among others, exemplify how global efforts can transform communities, reduce child mortality, and promote long-term environmental protection and sustainability.
The role of the global society
The interconnectedness of modern challenges necessitates global collaboration. Addressing water and sanitation issues is integral to achieving the global goals of sustainable development, especially those linked to climate action and building peace and justice.
The Global Society fosters partnerships among governments, non-profits, and private entities, supporting impactful initiatives and advocating for systemic change. From funding transformative projects to driving awareness campaigns, this collective approach is crucial for addressing the water crisis and protecting the future.
The ongoing crisis of childhood deaths due to diarrhoeal diseases underscores the urgent need for global action. Reducing these preventable deaths aligns with the pursuit of economic equality, social justice, and a healthier, more sustainable world. Continued investment in water and sanitation infrastructure, coupled with innovative solutions, can save lives and create a brighter future.
To learn more about global efforts and join the movement, visit UNICEF, WaterAid, and Action Against Hunger.
By working together, the global community can ensure access to clean water and sanitation for all, creating a world where every child can thrive.