The Impact of Water Scarcity on Women in Developing Countries 

Amid the worsening of climate change, one specific problem is growing larger and considerably affecting the population. Water scarcity, especially in developing regions, is becoming exceedingly problematic, and not only is it increasing existing challenges, but these challenges are disproportionately landing on the backs of women. Beyond the endangerment of their health and safety, their education, livelihood, and freedom remain on the line when falling under the gender expectations their countries have built for them. 

To many, water isn’t a luxury. But for those in places like Bangladesh, Kenya, Nepal, and Indonesia, it’s a main source of survival.  Below is a map by UNICEF highlighting countries and their access to safely managed water services: 

Source: UNICEF

For women in these countries, water collection is often their responsibility. In addition to collection, they must ensure clean water, boiling it for use, though they are not always able to avoid contaminants that can lead to disease, like hepatitis or cholera. Because of this, travel may be required of women to guarantee clean water. According to UNICEF USA, “women and girls spend an estimated 200 million hours – daily – collecting water.” That adds up to 8.3 million days. The time spent collecting water cuts into time where education and leisure can be utilized. As a result, girls are missing school and losing economic opportunities to gain paid work.

Beyond the dangers of the lack of water and the spread of disease due to this fact, many other risks are posed in relation to water scarcity in developing countries. One risk women may be faced with is the travel it takes to reach clean water. Along the way, challenges include difficult terrain and gender-based abuse, which often occurs. In many instances, women are sexually assaulted due to being alone for miles of travel. In an article by researchers at Loyola University Chicago, they note that sexual assault on the journey “was followed by physical violence, often perpetrated by intimate partners, in response to water inadequacy in the household.” Additionally, dangers like animals and physical injury from having to carry water are a real threat. Together, these risks prove that water scarcity stretches beyond being environmental, becoming a significant gender crisis.

In response to sustainable water access and the push for gender equality, many NGOs and initiatives have created strong efforts for change. The Water Justice Fund, for example, is aiming to support local women’s groups and find solutions to water and climate challenges. Some of their long-term goals include: 

• The most vulnerable communities are resilient to climate impact and the water crisis with improved access to water and sanitation services. 

• The voices of women and girls have been strengthened, and they are seen as important influencers and contributors to decision-making and climate adaptation measures. 

• Activism to put climate adaptation higher on the agenda has been strengthened. 

They are allowing resources to be placed directly with women and girls, as they gain the opportunity to make decisions about their futures. In working with partners like NIA – Kenya, Uttaran – Bangladesh, and many others, The Water Justice Fund acts as one of many initiatives transforming water access into gender empowerment.  

When clean water access is provided to women, the community as a whole will thrive, proving the fight for equality goes beyond environmental challenges. 

Author: Holly Cummings