Challenge in disaster reduction for the water and sanitation sector: improving quality of life by reducing vulnerabilities

This joint publication (PAHO, UNICEF, ISDR, and IFRC) was introduced at the 4th World Water Forum that took place in Mexico in March 2006 to draw attention to the importance of ensuring that water and sanitation systems remain fully operational in the aftermath of natural disasters. This is critical if countries are to ensure there are no setbacks to the hard-won achievements in terms of access to these services. Additionally, it will allow countries to meet, by the year 2015, the goal of reducing by half the proportion of people without sustainable access to drinking water and basic sanitation. Risk management is an important tool for the fulfillment of global challenges to provide water and sanitation services to all at all times.