Water supply solutions for long-term refugees and their host communities
Published on: 28/10/2024
Over 117 million people worldwide were forcibly displaced due to conflict, persecution, and violence last year—a figure that has steadily risen over the past 12 years (UNHCR, 2024). Around half moved within their country boundaries as internally displaced persons (IDPs) while others are forced to seek options outside of their countries of origin as refugees and asylum seekers.
The sudden influx of people places a huge strain on the provision of basic services of host communities, often in low-and middle-income neighboring states (UNHCR, 2024).
Recovery takes time, with more than 60 per cent of refugees being displaced for decades. It is in such contexts, that it becomes vital that water services are improved and costs reduced. Refugees are often served by under-resourced humanitarian systems that are designed for short-term life-saving responses – in the case of water supply often through water trucking, or temporary very basic water supplies. These are very expensive arrangements to sustain.
By taking a systems perspective, it is possible to identify measures that build on the existing arrangements for service provision in the host communities, and where possible strengthen them. Investments that build on existing service arrangements of host communities, typically through utilities, has potential to reduce costs, improve services and strengthen sustainability(UNICEF, IRC, 2024). This is a long-term project however and the challenges should not be underestimated (Day et al., 2020; Schweitzer et al., 2022).
For this WASH Debate, we will take a closer look at the development and management of water services in refugee and host communities. Speakers will reveal insights into the complexities of ensuring effective and sustainable water supply in refugee-hosting areas. Join us as we discuss:
Date: Monday, 16 December 2024
Time: 16.00-17.30
Location: Nutshuis, The Hague | Online