Making Waves: Canadians' Role in Water for Peace on World Water Day 2024

Water is a human right, intrinsic to every aspect of life.? And yet, 2.2 billion people still live without safely managed drinking water, including 28 First Nations communities in Canada.

?As World Water Day dawns upon us, we are called to reflect on the crucial role that water plays in fostering peace and stability, not just within Canada but across the globe. This year's theme, "Water for Peace," resonates deeply with Canadians, reminding us of the interconnectedness of our actions with the well-being of others and the planet. Let's delve into why this theme is particularly significant for Canadians and explore actionable steps we can take to make water a force for cooperation, harmony, and stability.

?1. Resonating with Canada's Water Landscapes:

Canada's diverse water landscapes, from majestic rivers to pristine lakes, form the backbone of our nation's identity. The theme of "Water for Peace" resonates with Canadians as we recognize the importance of preserving and protecting these precious water resources, not only for ourselves but for future generations and for communities around the world. Canadians do not have to rely on other countries for cooperation agreements for their water, but more than 3 billion people worldwide do. Only 24 countries have cooperation agreements for all their shared water.? As Canadians, we can fight and advocate for countries who are not as fortunate.

?2. Facing the Challenges of Water Scarcity and Contamination:

Roughly half of the world’s population is experiencing severe water scarcity for at least part of the year.? Even Canada, despite our abundance of freshwater, we are not immune to the challenges of water scarcity and contamination: ?28 First Nations communities still grapple with long-term Drinking Water Advisories, highlighting systemic issues of water inequality and injustice within our own borders. Internationally, conflicts fueled by water scarcity and contamination serve as stark reminders of the urgent need for cooperation and peacebuilding.

?3. Embracing Indigenous Perspectives:

Indigenous perspectives on water management and conservation offer invaluable insights into sustainable practices and the interconnectedness of water with culture, spirituality, and community. Canadians can incorporate these values into their daily lives by advocating for equitable access to clean water for Indigenous communities and supporting Indigenous-led water management initiatives. ?Canadians can press the Federal government to finally eliminate DWAs as promised in their 2015 federal election campaign.

?4. Confronting the Impacts of Climate Change:

Climate change poses a significant threat to Canada's freshwater resources, exacerbating issues of water scarcity, droughts, and extreme weather events. Individuals can mitigate these effects by conserving water at home, supporting sustainable agriculture practices, and advocating for policies that prioritize climate resilience and adaptation. Climate change has had an even greater impact worldwide. When scarcity and droughts occur, water is often a trigger or even a weapon during armed conflict. We must pressure global leaders to unite around water and use water for peace.

?5. Promoting Gender Equality in Water Management:

Gender equality is essential for achieving water security and peace. Without safely managed water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services, women and girls are more vulnerable to abuse, attach and ill-health, affecting their ability to study, work and live in dignity. Canadians can support initiatives that empower women and girls to participate in water governance and decision-making processes, recognizing their pivotal role as agents of change in building resilient and inclusive water systems.

?6. Investing in Innovative Solutions:

Innovation holds the key to addressing the complex challenges of water management and promoting peace. Canadians can support innovative technologies and initiatives that promote water conservation, enhance water quality, and build resilient water infrastructure. By investing in innovation, we can pave the way towards a future where water is a source of cooperation, rather than conflict.

?As we celebrate World Water Day 2024, let us recommit ourselves to the ideals of "Water for Peace." By taking proactive steps to conserve water, pressuring governments, supporting marginalized communities, and advocating for sustainable water management practices, Canadians can contribute to creating a world where water serves as a catalyst for cooperation, harmony, and stability. Together, let us make waves of change that ripple across borders, fostering peace and prosperity for all.

?#WWD24 #WWD2024 #WHO #UNICEF #ducksunlimitedcanada #WWF #davidsuzukifoundation

Jackie Rafter, MBA Ryan Mears, B.Mgt. Erin Wilkins Sharen Skene Jan Wood Higher Landing Mary Beth Acheson Deborah (Deb) Ducommun

Sources:

- United Nations. (2024). World Water Day. (https://www.un.org/en/observances/water-day)

- Human Rights Watch. (2016). Make It Safe: Canada’s Obligation to End First Nations Water Crisis. (https://www.hrw.org/report/2016/06/07/make-it-safe/canadas-obligation-end-first-nations-water-crisis)

- MDPI. (2020). Indigenous Perspectives on Water Management and Conservation: Insights for Sustainable Practices (https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4441/12/3/810)

- https://canadians.org/worldwaterday/

- United Nations. (n.d.). Gender Equality. (https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/gender-equality/)

WWD24 Factsheet: https://www.un.org/sites/un2.un.org/files/2023/12/wwd2024_en_factsheet.pdf