The correct spelling of the term "right to water" is /raɪt tə ˈwɔːtər/. The first syllable, "right", is spelled with a typical "i" sound, while the second syllable, "to", uses a schwa sound. The word "water" is spelled as it sounds, with a long "a" sound followed by the "t" and "r" sounds. This term refers to the concept that all individuals should have access to safe and clean water as a basic human right.
The "right to water" is a concept that establishes water as a basic human right, recognized and protected by national and international law. It entails that every individual has the fundamental entitlement to access sufficient, safe, acceptable, physically accessible, and affordable water for personal and domestic use. The right to water is essential for the realization of several other human rights, such as the right to life, dignity, health, and an adequate standard of living.
From a legal perspective, the right to water is primarily enshrined in international legal instruments, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, and the Convention on the Rights of the Child. However, its implementation may vary among countries, as some may view it as a justiciable right that can be enforced in courts, while others adopt a broader perspective and consider it as a guiding principle for water resource management.
Furthermore, the right to water also encompasses the notion of equity, ensuring that water resources are allocated in a fair manner, without discrimination or exclusion, to meet the needs of all individuals, especially the most vulnerable and marginalized populations. It encompasses the responsibility of states and relevant stakeholders to ensure the provision of adequate infrastructure, develop effective water management strategies, and promote sustainable practices to guarantee the availability and accessibility of water for present and future generations.