Water under attack and why it matters more than ever
"Water under Attack: Protection and Humanitarian Diplomacy in Times of Financial Contraction, Localization and Spreading Conflicts."
The conversation could not be more timely. At a time when armed conflicts are increasing, humanitarian needs are growing, and funding is shrinking, protecting water systems can no longer be treated solely as a technical issue. It is about preserving human dignity, particularly for women and children. As armed conflicts multiply, water systems are increasingly targeted, with devastating consequences for civilians, public health, food security, and the environment. 2026 also marks the 5th anniversary of UN Security Council Resolution 2573, and the 8th anniversary of UNSC 2417 yet implementation remains deeply concerning.
A few takeaways from the room:
- A diverse and engaged audience sparked rich, cross-sectoral discussions, highlighting how water, food, health, and energy systems are deeply interconnected, and equally vulnerable in conflict.
- Powerful interventions from key humanitarian actors, including Oxfam, Action Against Hunger USA (ACF), International Committee of the Red Cross - ICRC, and UNICEF, alongside Member States.
- Recognition of the Global Alliance's innovative, collaborative approach to placing WASH at the heart of protection.
- A valuable moment of engagement with the Permanent Mission of the Philippines to the UN, who generously hosted the event.
A heartfelt thank you to all co-sponsors, panellists, and partners, including Elyse Mosquini (ICRC), Brenda Chikwe Mofya (Oxfam International), Nicolas Villeminot (Action Against Hunger), and Samuel Godfrey (UNICEF Sudan) for their insights and commitment.
Protecting water is protecting civilians. Humanitarian diplomacy must rise to the challenge.
👉 Learn more about the Global Alliance to Spare Water from Armed Conflicts here: https://www.genevawaterhub.org/GASWAC
