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UN Warns of 'Global Water Bankruptcy' Era

Published January 22, 2026, 19:14
UN Warns of 'Global Water Bankruptcy' Era

A new UN report warns that the world is entering an era of 'global water bankruptcy'. The report highlights that groundwater depletion, pollution, deforestation, and climate change have led to irreversible losses of water capital in many regions of the world. The terms 'water stress' and 'water crisis' are no longer sufficient to describe the situation, as many areas are already operating beyond their hydrological means. The report's lead author, Kaveh Madani, emphasizes the need to revisit water policies and to more honestly recognize the severity of the problem. Governments, according to the report, often treat water scarcity as a temporary phenomenon and hesitate to take drastic measures. The report calls on leaders to adapt to a new reality and recognize that water management requires radical changes. Continuing with existing policies will lead to further irreparable damage. The CEO of WaterAid, Tim Wainwright, commented that the report 'captures a harsh truth: the global water crisis has passed the point of no return'. The situation requires immediate and coordinated action at a global level.