In the Americas, despite regional progress, approximately 160 million people still lack safely managed water, and 431 million lack safely managed sanitation, as measured by Sustainable Development Goal 6 methodology (see SDG targets 6.1 and 6.2). Progress on this impact indicator is contingent on providing access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH).
As of 2019, 11 out of 33 countries for which data is available had not met the regional target. Of the 33 countries, 16 are below the average for the Rregion (48%). 19 of 33 countries have a higher rate for males (57.6%).
Recommendations
• Promote initiatives like the Climate Resilient Water and Sanitation Security Framework and the Open Defecation Elimination Strategy.
• Strengthen monitoring and surveillance of drinking water quality at national and subnational levels within Member States.
• Monitor financial accounts to ensure the sustainability of WASH services and their positive impact on public health.