Washing Up: World Health Organization, 2024
Chair
Aya Elfatihi
In the vast tapestry of global concerns, access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene has become a critical issue. Even today, underserved areas struggle to provide and maintain such access. The WHO Committee is focusing on the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Task Force where we will delve into the field of public health, working to develop policies and programs that ensure clean drinking water, proper sanitation facilities, and comprehensive hygiene education reach every corner of our world.
Access to clean water is more than just a basic necessity; it is the foundation of human dignity and well-being. The WASH Task Force aims to address topics ranging from gender equity in WASH responsibilities to the critical importance of monitoring and assessing programs for effectiveness and sustainability. With waterborne diseases causing havoc and public health at risk, our aim is clear: to develop policies and actions that pave the path for a healthier, more equitable society."
As we embark on this path, consider how we may guarantee that WASH initiatives prioritize and meet the specific needs of women and girls. How do we build strong procedures for monitoring and assessing WASH programs to ensure they provide real results? And, perhaps most importantly, how do we mobilize the financial resources required to achieve universal access to WASH services, as stipulated in the SDGs?
This committee is not just discussing policy; we are defining the future. Let us use our collective skills and enthusiasm to bring about long-term change and better the lives of millions. Welcome to the World Health Organization's Committee on Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene; together, we will make change.