The Kingdom of the Netherlands aligns itself with the EU statement.

The Netherlands thanks the Special Rapporteur for his report, and underlines the importance of its conclusions. We welcome the report and its specific attention for the plight of indigenous peoples and women when it comes to ensuring sustainable and equitable water management and governance at all levels, and universal access to drinking water and sanitation for all.

We underline the importance of the very specific and precious knowledge indigenous peoples and women have on water management and climate adaptation.

As co-host of the UN 2023 Water Conference, our objective for the Conference and its preparatory process is to be truly inclusive, bringing to the fore the knowledge, expertise, and voices of all major groups and local communities, including women, youth, and indigenous groups. Indigenous and women’s networks represent a fundamental part of the solution in countering water scarcity, investing in climate adaptation, and achieving the goals of Agenda 2030.

Agenda 2030, including SDG 6, can only be achieved when we harness the full capacity, experience, knowledge, and meaningful participation of all groups and stakeholders in an inclusive manner.

We encourage the Special Rapporteur to continue his advocacy efforts for strengthening the right to safe and clean drinking water and sanitation, including through the UN 2023 Water Conference.

Thank you.