The human right to water and sanitation is of particular relevance for those living in poverty. It has developed over the years through various international legal frameworks and human rights instruments. At the heart of the human rights topic related to water and sanitation is the Universal Declaration of Human Rights which was adopted in 1948 to promote and protect the rights of all individuals, regardless of race, gender, religion, or social status. In 2010, the United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution 64/292, which explicitly recognized the human right to save and clean drinking water and sanitation. However, poverty and lack of access to basic services such as water, sanitation and healthcare are still preventing many from fully enjoying their human rights.

H.E. Ambassador Beresford-Hill joined by Malteser International representatives Mr. Roland Hansen and Mr. Arno Coerver met with Mr. Pedro Arrojo-Agudo, Special rapporteur on the right to water and sanitation to discuss the importance of water as a tool for Peace and Collaboration.