Water, sanitation and hygiene

Access to safe drinking water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) remains a critical issue across the Pacific, with serious implications for children and vulnerable communities. While some progress has been made, major gaps remain, especially in rural and outer island areas, putting children’s health and futures at risk.

Limited Access to Safe Drinking Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene

Although some Pacific Island Countries and Territories (PICTs) report over 91.5 per cent coverage of basic drinking water services, this figure masks significant disparities. In countries like Kiribati (76 per cent) and the Solomon Islands (67 per cent), access remains limited, particularly in rural areas, exposing families to heightened risks of waterborne diseases. Access to basic sanitation is even more concerning. Kiribati, the Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu fall behind in basic sanitation services, with only 45 per cent, 35 per cent, and 51 per cent of households, respectively. Open defecation rates are alarmingly high in some contexts, reaching up to 45 per cent in the Solomon Islands. Moreover, limited access to basic handwashing facilities, especially in Kiribati and the Marshall Islands, exacerbates the risk of preventable hygiene-related illnesses among children.

Vulnerability to Natural Disasters

The Pacific is among the world’s most disaster-prone regions, and climate change is intensifying the frequency and severity of extreme weather events. These events affect water security and disasters often damage or destroy water supply systems and sanitation facilities, leaving communities, especially children, without access to essential services during and after emergencies. This increases the risk of malnutrition, diarrheal disease outbreaks, and other health issues that disproportionately affect children.

Geographic and Logistical Barriers

WASH service delivery in the Pacific is challenged by the region’s vast geography, remote island settings, and limited infrastructure. These barriers make it difficult to ensure equitable access, especially in rural and outer island areas. As a result, the Pacific is not currently on track to meet the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for universal access to water and sanitation. Over eight-fold acceleration in progress is needed to close existing gaps and reach all children.

Funding and Political Will

Achieving universal access to safely managed WASH services by 2030 will require a significant increase in both investment and political commitment. Addressing the urgent needs of vulnerable communities, especially children in underserved areas, demands sustained funding, stronger systems, and policies that prioritise inclusive, climate-resilient WASH services.