Is access to clean water considered a poverty-related human right?

Yes, access to clean water is considered a poverty-related human right.

The United Nations recognises access to clean, safe drinking water as a fundamental human right. This recognition is rooted in the understanding that water is essential for life and health, and therefore, its accessibility is a critical determinant of poverty. The lack of access to clean water is often a characteristic of impoverished communities, making it a poverty-related human right.

The UN Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights adopted General Comment No. 15 in 2002, which explicitly states that the human right to water is indispensable for leading a life in human dignity and is a prerequisite for the realisation of other human rights. This means that without access to clean water, individuals are unable to fully enjoy other rights such as the right to health, the right to adequate food, and the right to a decent standard of living.

In many parts of the world, particularly in developing countries, access to clean water is a significant challenge. This lack of access can lead to a range of health issues, including diarrhoea, cholera, dysentery, typhoid, and polio. It also impacts education, as children, particularly girls, often miss school to fetch water. Moreover, the time and energy spent on obtaining water can limit opportunities for income generation, further entrenching poverty.

The UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) also highlight the importance of clean water access. Goal 6 aims to "ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all" by 2030. This goal recognises that clean water access is not only a poverty-related human right but also a key factor in sustainable development.

In conclusion, access to clean water is indeed considered a poverty-related human right. It is a fundamental requirement for life, health, and dignity, and its lack can exacerbate poverty and hinder the realisation of other human rights. The international community, through the UN and its SDGs, is working towards ensuring universal access to clean water as part of its broader efforts to eradicate poverty and promote human rights.