| Water is the source of life but as such it can
also be a source of conflict. With finite freshwater resources on the one hand, and an
increasing demand on the other, the need to protect and manage water resources properly
has never been greater. Major clashes over dwindling supplies of water may well be a
source of future conflicts between nations. However, acknowledging the situation and the
need to work together to find solutions would open the way for co-operation among nations. Equality, development and peace are inextricably linked. (Statement on women's Contribution to a Culture of Peace) |
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If we consider that access to a supply of good quality water at an affordable cost is a basic need for all and that it is intrinsically linked to our rights to health and education, it goes without saying that when talking about ethical and moral values related to water and human life the role of women is of the utmost importance. As the collection of water can take up to 60 per cent of women's and girlsí time, it is not suprising that it is one of the reasons why young girls abandon school - it is also an obstacle to their participation in formal education programmes. The carrying of water over long distances is a health hazard especially during development and pregnancy periods. Contaminated water is another major health risk in developing countries and because of their frequent contact with it women are the most at risk. Women can be considered as victims not only because of the direct impact of environmental degradation, but also because of their economic status. The 1991 Human Development Report (UNDP) recognises the " gender bias " in poverty: women form the larger proportion of the worldís poor and they make up the greater number of refugees in the world, it being estimated that 80 per cent of refugees are women and children. |
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Is there a woman's way of knowing? Recent studies suggest that girls seem more interested than boys in the social, cultural and ethical aspects of science and technology. (Edgard W.Jendins, UNESCO Connect Vol XXII, N_1, 1997). These aspects could be used most effectively towards the setting up of "a culture of peace". The training of women and girls in the ethics of water use is not only essential but crucial for the generations to come. Technology, and in particular, appropriate technology, is necessary but not sufficient. In many countries, the relationship between women and water is a complex issue that can best be tackled by a multidisciplinary approach including social sciences, cultural and ethical aspects. Within the IHP Special Project, the scientific community is called upon to work together in order to overcome lack of information, co-operation and co-ordination at all levels. |
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