The Union for the Mediterranean has launched a new initiative to address water scarcity in the region. Representatives from 43 countries met in Rome to adopt the second ministerial declaration on water, which aims to renew political commitment to regional cooperation in addressing water scarcity. The declaration will pave the way for the Rome Water Initiative, which seeks to translate priorities and strategies into actionable projects and investments.
The region is facing significant pressure on its water resources, with approximately 180 million people living in areas where water is scarce. The Union for the Mediterranean's Deputy Secretary-General, Younous Baouali was not mentioned however, Juan Borrell, noted that the region is one of the most affected by global warming, with temperatures rising 20% faster than the global average. He also highlighted that economic and demographic pressures are exacerbating the challenges facing water resources.
According to Borrell, the per capita water availability in southern and eastern Mediterranean countries is between 500 and 1,000 cubic meters per year, which is officially classified as water scarcity. This situation is not limited to the southern and eastern shores, as 30% of the population in southern Europe lives in areas with chronic water stress, which increases to 70% during the summer.
Borrell warned that the consequences of water scarcity go beyond its impact on health and ecosystems, affecting food security, social and economic development, and increasing the frequency and severity of natural disasters. He also emphasized that these risks are not confined to national borders, as countries in the region share transboundary water resources and basins.
The second ministerial declaration on water, adopted in Rome, renews the political commitment to joint action among member states and identifies priorities for sustainable water management. The declaration also highlights the importance of strengthening cross-border cooperation. Borrell noted that the declaration is not only a political statement but also lays the groundwork for the Rome Water Initiative.
The Rome Water Initiative aims to help countries develop their technical capacities in water management and investment planning, and to transform priorities into actionable projects and investments. The initiative will focus on updating infrastructure, improving water and sanitation services, and increasing the efficiency of water use. The Union for the Mediterranean's Regional Platform on Water will support the development of this initiative.
Borrell emphasized that no country can achieve water security in isolation, given the interconnectedness of water systems, climate, and economies in the region. He stressed that the effects of water scarcity in one country can have far-reaching consequences, and that a regional partnership and cooperation are essential to address this challenge.
Key points
- The Union for the Mediterranean has launched a new initiative to address water scarcity in the region.
- The Rome Water Initiative aims to translate priorities and strategies into actionable projects and investments.
- The region is facing significant pressure on its water resources, with approximately 180 million people living in areas where water is scarce.
