Statement of the International Committee of the Red Cross at the November 22 Debate on Water Peace and Security

In the ICRC’s experience, the vital importance of water often makes it a highly contested resource in armed conflicts. Water points become strategic — whether they are rural wells in arid lands or pumping stations in sophisticated cities. In many wars, water systems are also caught up in fighting, becoming damaged, degraded or destroyed. Even when supply exists, accessing water can become extremely dangerous — especially for women and girls who have the responsibility in many societies for water collection. Children can spend hours queuing and collecting water when they should be at school.