Attachments
Executive Summary
The importance of water for sustainable development was brought front and centre by the global community when it launched the International Decade for Action, “Water for Sustainable Development”, 2018-2028, also referred to as the Water Action Decade. This tenth issue of the ESCWA Water Development Report presents a midterm review of the progress and challenges being faced by the Arab countries to achieve the goals set forth in the Water Action Decade, including the water-related Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) articulated in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
In the Arab region, water scarcity and ever-increasing stresses on dwindling freshwater resources necessitate a focus on how to accelerate the achievement of the Water Action Decade to ensure water security for all. This tenth anniversary edition of the ESCWA Water Development Report highlights progress in addressing strategic water issues affecting the Arab countries since the launch of the previous International Decade for Action, “Water for Life”, 2005-2015, which coincided with the first issuance of the ESCWA Water Development Report in 2005.
Between 2000 and 2022, the percentage of the population in the Arab region that has access to basic drinking water services increased from 79 to 89 per cent and for basic sanitation services from 74 to 89 per cent (see figure). More domestic wastewater is being treated and the degree of integrated water resources management (IWRM) has increased. Awareness about the centrality of water for sustainable development has improved, as evidenced by policymakers including water security priorities in national policies and plans. International partnerships for collaborative research and innovation have strengthened, with investments in water infrastructure improving water availability and quality in many parts of the region.
Despite the achievements, the Arab region still faces pronounced challenges. As of now, only five Arab countries are on track to achieve SDG 6 by 2030. Freshwater availability in the region fell below the water scarcity threshold of 1,000 m3 in 1995 and is projected to fall below the absolute freshwater scarcity threshold of 500 m3 per capita by 2026. Already, 19 Arab countries are classified as water-scarce, while 13 are below the absolute water scarcity threshold. Water stress is being exacerbated by climate change, rapid population growth and unsustainable consumption patterns. Changing precipitation patterns have increased the frequency of flooding in certain areas and prolonged droughts in others. Groundwater over-extraction is depleting and contaminating freshwater resources, including coastal aquifers. Water resource management systems need to be revisited. Conflict in several countries in the region has also damaged and destroyed crucial water infrastructure, which impedes access to basic water services, increases vulnerability, and contributes to instability.
The Water Action Decade thus provides an inflection point where Arab countries can reflect on progress achieved, challenges faced, and means for accelerating the implementation of integrated and sustainable water practices. The following key messages reiterate the analysis, main findings and recommendations of the report. These aim to guide countries towards effective water management, ensure equitable access, and foster resilience in the face of climate and socio-political challenges. By adopting these tailored strategies, the Arab region can accelerate progress towards the goals and targets outlined in the Water Action Decade to achieve water security for all in the Arab region through the five areas of intervention highlighted below.