Gold Report Vii- Economies of Equality and Care
Summary
Water and sanitation utilities are critical in realising one of the most fundamental human rights – access to safe water and adequate sanitation. Their role extends far beyond infrastructure; they are critical enablers of health, well-being, dignity, equity and shaping resilience in the urban world. In cities striving to embody care, utilities are key pillars. Reliable and sustainable access to safe drinking water and adequate sanitation is indispensable for maintaining public health and reducing disease burden, which are key priorities for caring cities. Utilities that are gender- and disability-sensitive help reduce the burden of care. As front-line actors, utilities support resilience by ensuring continuity of services during crises. These actions not only safeguard urban populations but also strengthen the capacity of local governments to deliver on their commitments to sustainability and resilience. Water and sanitation utilities also advance equity and social inclusion at the local level. Through targeted city-wide infrastructure, tariffs for low-income neighbourhoods, pro-poor service models and community engagement initiatives, they help municipalities close the service access gap for vulnerable populations. This alignment with local development plans and social protection strategies reinforces the vision of cities as spaces that care for all residents. By prioritising accountability, safety, equity, resource management and sustainability in collaboration with local governments, utilities become central actors in shaping urban environments that are safe, equitable and sustainable. GWOPA/ UN Habitat contributed to GOLD CARE VII process by compiling how utilities provide caring infrastructure through various dimensions like gender, climate , public spaces, low income communities (equity) etc. Through this interactive world map, pin your 'care ' initiatives as utilities.
Objectives
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