By Vaishnavi Kalakota

Water. For many of us, especially in the United States, it’s something that we rarely think about. But for millions around the world, access to safe water is a daily struggle—one that can determine whether a child lives or dies, whether a girl can receive her education or whether a woman can pursue a career.

Today, 1 in 4 globally lack safe access to water. Water is not only essential for survival, but also for maintaining dignity and quality of life. Each year, over 1 million every year die due to unsafe water and poor sanitation. Beyond the human toll, this crisis also carries a massive economic cost as an estimated $260 billion is lost globally each year due to inadequate water access and sanitation.

The water crisis has a disproportionate effect on women and girls. In many communities, they are often in charge of water collection for their households. With this responsibility, they may stand in a long line and wait for water, walk lengthy distances, or pay a large sum of money to obtain this basic necessity. Families are sometimes forced to choose between dehydration and consuming contaminated water that can cause serious illness.

In total, women and girls around the world spend an estimated 200 million hours collecting water each day. Water collection and locating a safe place to find water accounts for the majority of their day, which can take time away from school, work and caring for family. Without essential water access and safe, clean toilets, women all over the world are unable to live up to their full potential. In fact, research shows that every year a girl stays in school, her income as an adult is expected to increase by about 20%. 

Access to clean water is more than a basic need, as it is a powerful tool for empowerment. When women and girls have reliable water sources, they can pursue education, start businesses and contribute more fully to their communities.

Visit water.org to learn more about how the water crisis impacts women.