Water is a woman – every day, not just on International Womens Day

International Womens Day originates from the deep need to introduce gender equality, voting rights, and a better future. How beautifully this resonates in our country today. However, the history of women, the path they have traveled, and the price they have paid for the right to decide for themselves and co-decide the world – written in blood and tears – are a testament to their resilience. It should come as no surprise that women around the world still need support to take on this challenge anew every day.

But what does water have to do with this struggle? Quite a lot. The lack of access to clean water causes diseases among women and their children and acts as a barrier to girls’ education, often making even basic schooling difficult, if not impossible.

Women for women in the fight for clean water

Today, I want to draw your attention to organizations that are passionately working to improve the lives of women worldwide, preventing tragedies caused by a lack of access to basic hygiene. On the other hand, although the water sector is still predominantly male-dominated, it is equally important to highlight and support the presence of women in this field.

At the heart of the global fight for equal access to water is the Women for Water Partnership (WfWP) – an international coalition that brings together women’s organizations from around the world to work toward sustainable water and sanitation management. WfWP focuses on empowering women as key decision-makers in the water sector. Through various projects, from education to concrete technical initiatives, the organization aims to increase water availability and promote female leadership, as women often spearhead changes within their communities.

A similar mission drives The Global Women’s Water Initiative (GWWI), which focuses its efforts on Africa. GWWI provides training and support for women who want to gain the skills needed to improve access to clean water in their communities. This not only equips them with practical knowledge but also transforms them into leaders and advocates for change, influencing the lives of their families and communities.

The International Water Association (IWA) also plays a significant role in improving quality of life through its Women in Water program, which aims to increase the visibility and involvement of women in the water sector. This initiative gives women opportunities for career growth and establishes them as equal forces in an industry traditionally dominated by men.

Meanwhile, the Women’s Earth and Climate Action Network (WECAN) focuses on climate change and environmental justice, leading projects that connect these aspects with water resource management. WECAN mobilizes women for action, proving that everyone can contribute to the environment, and that sustainable management of natural resources is key to a healthy future for our planet.

I also cannot fail to mention the Polish Humanitarian Action (PAH), which has dedicated immense effort and work to ensuring that women in remote areas of South Sudan, Somalia, and Ukraine can access basic hygiene and clean water. This organization not only builds wells and water sources but also constructs toilets and latrines, essential for health and dignity. As part of its mission, PAH also distributes hygiene kits, containing essential products for women.

How can one live without water?

This rhetorical question has only one answer. Life without water is impossible, and its limited availability severely hinders dignified and healthy living conditions. The engagement of the organizations mentioned is crucial, directly affecting the daily struggles of women worldwide.

In many regions where water access is scarce, it is women and girls who spend hours each day fetching water for their families. The journey to distant water sources exposes them to many dangers, from attacks to health problems caused by carrying heavy loads. Education becomes secondary when daily survival consumes most of their time and energy.

Programs such as those run by GWWI, WfWP, and PAH often focus on building wells or introducing simple purification technologies, which can significantly reduce the time needed to obtain water and, in turn, allow girls to attend school, giving them hope for a better future.

Efforts toward gender equality in access to water are not just about justice – they are the foundation of lasting development and global well-being.

A final reflection on this topic: Water – this life-giving essence, flowing ceaselessly like the strength of women – is present in every aspect of our existence, not just on International Women’s Day.

Dear gentlemen, instead of a traditional bouquet of flowers, perhaps a donation toward building a well would be a more meaningful gift? And if not, perhaps a long-lasting, green potted plant, a daily reminder of the endless care and respect that form the foundation of women’s resilience.

main photo: Kyson Dana / Unsplash