World Water Day

World Water Day
A World Water Day celebration in Kenya in 2010
Observed by	People and organizations worldwide, including all UN member states
Date	22 March
Next time	22 March 2018 (2018-03-22)
Frequency	annual
First time	22 March 1993
Related to	Water, Sustainable development, Sustainability

World Water Day is an annual event celebrated on 22 March. The day focuses attention on the importance of universal access to clean water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) facilities in developing countries. The day also focuses on advocating for the sustainable management of freshwater resources.

World Water Day is supported by stakeholders across the globe. Many organizations promote clean water for people and sustainable aquatic habitats. Events such as theatrical and musical celebrations, educational events, and campaigns to raise money for access to clean and affordable water are held worldwide on or close to 22 March.

UN-Water selects a theme for each year. Previous themes included: 'Why waste water?' (a play on words with 'Why wastewater?') in 2017, 'Water and Jobs' in 2016, and 'Water and Sustainable Development' in 2015.

The first International World Water Day, designated by the United Nations, was commemorated in 1993.

World Water Day is an international observance day. It is meant to inspire people around the world to learn more about water-related issues, tell others about these issues and take action to make a difference, particularly in developing countries.

One of these issues is the global water crisis. The global water crisis includes challenges such as water scarcity, water pollution, inadequate water supply and the lack of sanitation for billions of people in developing countries. The day brings to light the inequality of access to WASH services and the need to assure the human right to water and sanitation.

UN-Water coordinates plans and programmes for the day in consultation with UN member organisations who share interest in that year's theme. For example, in 2016 when the theme was "Water and Jobs," UN-Water collaborated with the International Labour Organization.