World Toilet Day highlights the continuing struggle for safe water and sanitation across the pan-European region
Извор: WUNRN – 19.11.2019
Over 31 million people in the pan-European region lack access to basic sanitation services and 314 000 people still practice open defecation. The impact is clear, as every day, 14 people die of diarrhoea in the region because of inadequate water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH). In addition, there are significant inequalities in access to basic sanitation services between rural and urban areas, and between rich and poor communities – affecting households, schools and hospitals. The release of untreated wastewater to the environment also constitutes a significant problem in the region.
World Toilet Day, celebrated on 19 November, is an important occasion that reminds us of the need for safe sanitation services for the well-being of all. “Recognize that a toilet is not just a toilet,” explains Dr Piroska Östlin, Regional Director for Europe a.i. “It protects your dignity, your health, and the health of those around you.”
