UN Rapporteur: For every euro invested in water we get seven-fold profit

When a country decides to invest in water supply and sewer systems, this decision may prove crucial, as this can stimulate that country's growth, according to Catarina de Albuquerque, UN Special Rapporteur on the human right to safe drinking water and sanitation. “Investing in water is a wise political decision, which promotes the enjoyment of a number of human rights, including the right to health and the right to work. For every euro invested in water supply and sewage we get 7 euros in profit”, Catarina de Albuquerque told an international conference in Chisinau. She noted that ensuring water supply is a commitment assumed by Moldova and the government may not restrict anyone's right, including the right of vulnerable groups, to safe drinking water. “While the right to water doesn't come free of charge, water services should be reasonably priced so that the poorer groups can afford them”. United Nations experts who studied Moldova from the perspective of social rights expressed concern about the inadequate level of access to safe drinking water. Moldova has been selected alongside 50 other countries where nationwide consultations will be initiated on water supply priorities. According to the Ministry of Environment, 45% of Moldova's population don't have access to constant water supply and 65% to sewer systems.